Chatkalite
A variety of Minerals
What is Chatkalite?
Chatkalite is a copper, iron, tin sulfide mineral with formula Cu6FeSn6S8. It crystallizes in the tetragonal crystal system and forms as rounded dissemations within tetrahedrite in quartz veins.
Etymology & Origins
Chatkalite was discovered in 1981 around the Chatkal Mountains of Uzbekistan in an unknown locality. It was given the name chatkalite because of this region where it was discovered.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Chatkalite 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.
Chatkalite Localities Map
See where Chatkalite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Chatkalite
Chatkalite can have sizes ranging from rounded grains of about 100 micron when found within a tetrahedrite. It has a metallic luster, a hardness of 274 on the Vickers scale and a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. It has a color of pale rose in reflected light with no internal reflection. Its diaphaneity can be described as opaque. It does not exhibit any cleavage or twinning properties. Chatkalite is anisotropic which is characteristic of the stannite group. Its anisotropic intensity is a weak shade of brown.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Density
- 5 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu6FeSn2S8
- Elements
- Cu, Fe, S, Sn
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Chatkalite FAQs
How do I identify Chatkalite?
Chatkalite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
How hard is Chatkalite?
Chatkalite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the characteristics of chatkalite of Chatkalite?
Chatkalite can have sizes ranging from rounded grains of about 100 micron when found within a tetrahedrite. It has a metallic luster, a hardness of 274 on the Vickers scale and a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. It has a color of pale rose in reflected light with no internal reflection. Its diaphaneity can be described as opaque. It does not exhibit any cleavage or twinning properties. Chatkalite is anisotropic which is characteristic of the stannite group. Its anisotropic intensity is a weak shade of brown.
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