Boleite (Type Locality)

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Rare, and prized, Boleite is a silver species that was first discovered at the Boleo District in the late 1800s. This 7 mm crystal is deep blue and lustrous, two characteristics which are hallmarks for the species. In fact, I don't think there is any blue mineral that quite matches a Boleite when the deep, Prussian Blue color is accented by an almost luminous, vitreous to pearly luster. Adding to the visuals and mineralogical interest is the fact that the corners are modified by the octahedron, which is rare in Boleites. This is a choice thumbnail with fine aesthetics. On a final note, I find it both ironic and amazing that a mineral that never grows into large crystals has a molecular composition that contains a full 170 atoms. That really just blows my mind.