Djerfisherite
A potassium-bearing sulphide with chlorine, found in enstatite chondrites.
Key facts
- Formula
- K6(Fe,Cu,Ni)25S26Cl
- Family
- Sulphides
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- First described
- enstatite chondrites, 1966
Djerfisherite was described in 1966 from the enstatite chondrites Kota-Kota and St. Mark's. It is named after Daniel Jerome Fisher, an American mineralogist. It was later found in rare rocks on Earth.
What it is
Djerfisherite is a complex sulphide of potassium, iron, copper and nickel with chlorine. Potassium in a sulphide is very unusual.
Where it is found
It occurs in enstatite chondrites and some enstatite achondrites, usually beside troilite and metal. On Earth it has been found in some kimberlites and alkaline rocks.
How it is recognised
It is olive green to brown in polished section and identified by its potassium and chlorine content.
Did you know?
Djerfisherite's name combines Fisher's initials and surname.
Chlorine in enstatite chondrites has been used to study where the volatile elements of the inner Solar System came from.