|
Cassiterite is the most important ore that occurs from tin and is marked with high durability. The name of this mineral is derived from the word “Cassiterides” which was used to describe British islands during the pre-Roman times. Their most prevalent usage is in the form of gemstones. The name Cassiterite was derived from a Greek word “kassiteros” which stands for tin. It is also popularly known as ‘tinstones’.
Chemical Formula of Cassiterite is SnO2. Its luster is defined by terms such as ‘adamantine’ and ‘greasy’. It is found in a number of colors such as black, yellow, red, white, wine, purple, and brown and its estimated density is about 6.99g/cm3. It is usually found in solid state but it becomes transparent when transformed to polished gemstones. Its estimated hardness is 6 to 7 according to the Mohs scale and its gravity is between 6.8 and 7.1.
Cassiterite is primarily concentrated in alluvial surfaces. They are mainly available in the tin mines located in Bolivia where they exist in hydrothermal veins. This type of ore is available in small elements that are derived from igneous rocks. The different aspects of this ore are elaborately arranged and exhibit tremendous amount of luster. Associated minerals with which cassiterite ores are generally found are Tourmalines, Molybdenite, Bismuthinite, Topaz, Fluorite, and Wolframite.
This particular type of tin ore is found in abundance in the alluvial soils of the Malay Peninsula, Thailand, Indonesia, Zaire, Bolivia and Nigeria. It is an important source of tin.
|
