What does wulfenite mean?
Wulfenite is a rare mineral species with the chemical formula PbMoO4, consisting of lead molybdate. It forms yellow, orange, or red tetragonal crystals and is highly prized by collectors for its vibrant colors and rarity. Wulfenite is found in limited quantities in certain types of ore deposits and is named after the Austrian mineralogist Franz Xavier von Wulfen. As a technical term, wulfenite is primarily used in geology and mineralogy, and its usage is generally formal. The mineral's unique properties and limited availability make it an important specimen for study and collection.
nounWulfenite is a rare mineral species with the chemical formula PbMoO4, consisting of lead molybdate. It forms yellow, orange, or red tetragonal crystals.
- A mineral species with the chemical formula PbMoO4
- A rare lead molybdate mineral
"The geologist carefully extracted a sample of wulfenite from the rocky outcropping."
"The museum's mineral collection featured a stunning specimen of wulfenite."
"Wulfenite is highly prized by collectors for its vibrant colors and rarity."
The plural form 'wulfenites' is used to refer to multiple specimens or samples of the mineral.
"The museum's collection featured several specimens of wulfenites from different locations."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of wulfenite
Wulfenite is named after the Austrian mineralogist Franz Xavier von Wulfen, who first discovered the mineral in the 18th century. The term 'wulfenite' is derived from Wulfen's surname and the suffix '-ite', which is commonly used in mineralogy to form names of minerals. Wulfenite is a lead molybdate mineral, and its composition reflects its association with lead and molybdenum ores.
Usage notes
Wulfenite is a formal, technical term used primarily in geology and mineralogy. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.