Baumhauerite
A variety of Minerals
What is Baumhauerite?
Baumhauerite (Pb3As4S9) is a rare lead sulfosalt mineral. It crystallizes in the triclinic system, is gray-black to blue-gray and its lustre is metallic to dull. Baumhauerite has a hardness of 3. Baumhauerite occurs as small crystals embedded in dolomitic marble. It is found primarily in the Lengenbach Quarry, Binnental, in the Valais region of Switzerland, the mineral is named after German mineralogist Heinrich Adolph Baumhauer (1848–1926), who discovered it at Lengenbach, famous among mineralogists for its array of rare minerals, in 1902. Baumhauerite has also been reported at Sterling Hill, New Jersey, United States, typically in association with molybdenite, and in aggregates at Hemlo, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Baumhauerite 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.
Baumhauerite Localities Map
See where Baumhauerite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Lead-grey, steel-grey; iridescent at times
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3
- Density
- 5.42 g/cm³
- Streak
- Chocolate-brown
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Pb12As16S36 Simplified Pb3As4S9.
- Elements
- As, Pb, S
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Baumhauerite FAQs
How do I identify Baumhauerite?
Baumhauerite can be identified by its hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, Lead-grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Baumhauerite?
Baumhauerite typically appears in Lead-grey, steel-grey; iridescent at times. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Baumhauerite?
Baumhauerite has a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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