Definition

1. Noun:
   • A reddish mineral: "cobalt bloom" refers to a naturally occurring mineral with a distinctive red or pinkish-red color.
   • Chemical composition: It is scientifically identified as hydrated cobalt arsenate (Co₃(AsO₄)₂·8H₂O) and forms monoclinic crystals.
   • Use: This mineral has been historically used as a pigment for coloring glass and ceramics.
   • Occurrence: It is typically found in mineral veins associated with cobalt and arsenic ores.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The geologist identified the vibrant red crust in the mine as cobalt bloom.
  • Cobalt bloom, though beautiful, contains arsenic and must be handled with care.
  • The antique vase's pink tint was achieved using a pigment derived from cobalt bloom.

Advanced Usage

• In mineralogy: The term is used specifically to describe the secondary mineral formed by the oxidation of cobalt-bearing arsenide ores.
  • The presence of cobalt bloom is a key indicator for prospectors searching for primary cobalt deposits.

Variants and Related Words

• Erythrite: This is the more formal mineralogical name for "cobalt bloom."
• Cobaltocalcite: A different cobalt-bearing mineral (cobalt calcium carbonate).
• Cobaltite: A primary ore of cobalt (CoAsS), often found in association with cobalt bloom.

Synonyms

• Erythrite (Primary synonym, used in scientific contexts).
• Red cobalt (An archaic or informal term).

Notes on Meaning

• The term "cobalt bloom" is highly specific to geology and mineralogy. It is not used in everyday language. The "bloom" in the name refers to its flower-like, often crusty or crystalline, appearance on rock surfaces, not to the act of flowering.

Noun

1. a reddish mineral consisting of hydrated cobalt arsenate in monoclinic crystalline form and used in coloring glass; usually found in veins bearing cobalt and arsenic