From "molybdaina" (Greek) a lump of lead, or graphite
Formula:
MoS2
Description:
Hexangonal shiny metallic crystal, which you can bend easily. (The white bit is quartz).
As you can tell from its derivation, Molybdenite has been confused with other minerals in the past. The ancient Greeks used this name for several soft minerals which could be used for writing.
Molydbenite contains Molybdenum, which is used in the manufacture of steel. It is also used as a solid lubricant (to reduce friction).
