The detection of cobalt by the microcosmic salt bead

I. The fact, that the blue violet colour of the microcosimic salt bead of cobalt is changed into blue by addition of Na₂CO₃ K₂CO₃, K₂CO₃ NA₂HPO₄ or NA₃PO₄is explained by the formation of pyrophosphate in the melt. II. K₂Na₂P₂O₇ if melted together with CoCl₂ forms blue porcelaneous masses, completely soluble in water.