Breithauptite
A variety of Minerals
What is Breithauptite?
Breithauptite is a nickel antimonide mineral with the simple formula NiSb. Breithauptite is a metallic opaque copper-red mineral crystallizing in the hexagonal - dihexagonal dipyramidal crystal system. It is typically massive to reniform in habit, but is observed as tabular crystals. It has a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4 and a specific gravity of 8.23. It occurs in hydrothermal calcite veins associated with cobalt–nickel–silver ores. It was first described in 1840 from the Harz Mountains, Lower Saxony, Germany and in 1845 for occurrences in the Cobalt and Thunder Bay districts of Ontario, Canada. It was named to honor Saxon mineralogist Johann Friedrich August Breithaupt (1791–1873).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Breithauptite 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.
Breithauptite Localities Map
See where Breithauptite 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
- Copper-red with violet tint
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5
- Density
- 8.629 g/cm³
- Streak
- Reddish brown
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- NiSb
- Elements
- Ni, Sb
Also Known As
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Breithauptite FAQs
How do I identify Breithauptite?
Breithauptite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Copper-red with violet tint color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Breithauptite?
Breithauptite typically appears in Copper-red with violet tint. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Breithauptite?
Breithauptite has a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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