Ammineite
A variety of Minerals
What is Ammineite?
Ammineite is the first recognized mineral containing ammine groups. Its formula is [CuCl2(NH3)2]. The mineral is chemically pure. It was found in a guano deposit in Chile. At the same site other ammine-containing minerals were later found: Chanabayaite, CuCl(N3C2H2)(NH3)·0.25H2O (an alternative formula), a triazolate mineral Joanneumite, Cu(C3N3O3H2)2(NH3)2, an isocyanurate mineral Shilovite, Cu(NH3)4(NO3)2
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Ammineite 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.
Ammineite Localities Map
See where Ammineite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Ammineite
The characteristic features of the structure of ammineite are: layers of trans form of the copper complex, parallel to (001), connected by Cu-Cl bonds presence of CuN2Cl4 distorted octahedron ([4+2] coordination) edge-sharing of the octahedra produce zigzag chains along the [001] direction hydrogen bonds between NH3 and Cl atoms
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Deep blue to sky blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1
- Density
- 2.34 g/cm³
- Streak
- Light blue
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- [CuCl2(NH3)2]
- Elements
- Cl, Cu, H, N
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Ammineite FAQs
How do I identify Ammineite?
Ammineite can be identified by its hardness of 1 on the Mohs scale, Deep blue to sky blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Ammineite?
Ammineite typically appears in Deep blue to sky blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Ammineite?
Ammineite has a hardness of 1 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the composition of ammineite of Ammineite?
The characteristic features of the structure of ammineite are: layers of trans form of the copper complex, parallel to (001), connected by Cu-Cl bonds presence of CuN2Cl4 distorted octahedron ([4+2] coordination) edge-sharing of the octahedra produce zigzag chains along the [001] direction hydrogen bonds between NH3 and Cl atoms
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