Altaite
A variety of Minerals
What is Altaite?
Altaite, or lead telluride, is a yellowish white mineral with an isometric crystal structure. Altaite is in the galena group of minerals as it shares many of properties of galena. Altaite has an unusually high density for a light-colored mineral. Altaite and other rare tellurides are classified in the sulfide mineral class (Dana classification). Altaite was discovered in 1845 in the Altai Mountains. Besides these mountains altaite can also be found in Zyryanovsk, Kazakhstan; the Ritchie Creek Deposit in Price County, Wisconsin; the Koch-Bulak gold deposit in Kazakhstan; Moctezuma, Mexico; and Coquimbo, Chile among other locations.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Altaite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Altaite Localities Map
See where Altaite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Tin-white with a light yellow tint; yellow-brown, blue (tarnished)
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 3
- Density
- 8.27 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- PbTe
- Elements
- Pb, Te
Also Known As
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Altaite FAQs
How do I identify Altaite?
Altaite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Tin-white with a light yellow tint; yellow-brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Altaite?
Altaite typically appears in Tin-white with a light yellow tint; yellow-brown, blue (tarnished). Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Altaite?
Altaite has a hardness of 2 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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