Coyoteite

A variety of Minerals

What is Coyoteite?

Coyoteite is a hydrated sodium iron sulfide mineral. The mineral was named coyoteite after Coyote Peak near Orick, California where it was discovered (along with another rare mineral, orickite). This mineral is unstable under normal atmospheric conditions, making it rare at the surface. The mineral was first described in a petrographic study of a sample of a mafic diatreme at Coyote Peak. The largest piece of coyoteite found on that specimen has the dimensions of 0.2 × 0.4 mm.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Coyoteite 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Coyoteite Localities Map

See where Coyoteite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Black to pale brownish grey
Hardness (Mohs)
1.5
Density
2.879 g/cm³
Streak
Black

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
NaFe3S5 · 2H2O
Elements
Fe, H, Na, O, S
FREE APPTrusted by rockhounds
Ruby Glint rock identifier app

Identify Coyoteite Instantly

  • Snap a photo, get instant results
  • 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
  • Discover collecting spots near you

Coyoteite FAQs

How do I identify Coyoteite?

Coyoteite can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 on the Mohs scale, Black to pale brownish grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Coyoteite?

Coyoteite typically appears in Black to pale brownish grey. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Coyoteite?

Coyoteite has a hardness of 1.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

Related Minerals

Explore More Rocks & Minerals