Compositional and textural variations of the major iron and base-metal sulphide minerals

The crystal structures, stoichiometrics, electrical and magnetic properties, stabilities and mineral textures found in the metal sulphides are briefly reviewed. Eight of the major iron and base metal sulphide minerals, chosen because of their widespread occurrence (pyrite, pyrrhotite), role as the major ore mineral of a particular metal (chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, pentlandite), or importance as a carrier of rare or precious metals (arsenopyrite, tetrahedrite) are discussed in greater detail. The crystal structures and physical properties of these minerals are discussed, along with phase relations in the relevant sulphide systems. Particular emphasis is placed on the presentation of data on major and minor element compositional variations in these minerals and textural features commonly observed in ores containing them, both of which are of crucial importance in their metallurgical processing.