Argentopyrite
A variety of Minerals
What is Argentopyrite?
Argentopyrite is a moderately rare sulfide mineral with formula AgFe2S3. It is one of the natural compounds of the M Fe2S3 type, with M being caesium in very rare pautovite, copper in relatively common cubanite, potassium in rare rasvumite and thallium in rare picotpaulite. The type locality is Jáchymov in Czech Republic. Chemically similar mineral include sternbergite (dimorphous with argentopyrite), lenaite, AgFeS2, and argentopentlandite, Ag(Fe,Ni)8S8.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Argentopyrite 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.
Argentopyrite Localities Map
See where Argentopyrite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Argentopyrite
Although previously assumed orthorhombic, argentopyrite was later shown to be monoclinic, with structural relationship to cubanite. The most important feature of the argentopyrite structure are: hexagonal close-packing of sulfur atoms presence of AgS4 and FeS4 tetrahedra in sheets displaying corner-sharing presence of a cluster of four FeS4 tetrahedra that share edges presence of two iron sites, instead of one as in related species ordered-disordered ferrous-ferric nature of the mineral
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Bronze-brown, tarnishing to lead-grey.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5 - 4
- Density
- 4.27 g/cm³
- Streak
- Grey.
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- AgFe2S3
- Elements
- Ag, Fe, S
Identify Argentopyrite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Argentopyrite FAQs
How do I identify Argentopyrite?
Argentopyrite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Bronze-brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Argentopyrite?
Argentopyrite typically appears in Bronze-brown, tarnishing to lead-grey.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Argentopyrite?
Argentopyrite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the composition of argentopyrite of Argentopyrite?
Although previously assumed orthorhombic, argentopyrite was later shown to be monoclinic, with structural relationship to cubanite. The most important feature of the argentopyrite structure are: hexagonal close-packing of sulfur atoms presence of AgS4 and FeS4 tetrahedra in sheets displaying corner-sharing presence of a cluster of four FeS4 tetrahedra that share edges presence of two iron sites, instead of one as in related species ordered-disordered ferrous-ferric nature of the mineral
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
