Germanite
A variety of Minerals
What is Germanite?
Germanite is a rare copper iron germanium sulfide mineral, Cu26Fe4Ge4S32. It was first discovered in 1922, and named for its germanium content. It is only a minor source of this important semiconductor element, which is mainly derived from the processing of the zinc sulfide mineral sphalerite. Germanite contains gallium, zinc, molybdenum, arsenic, and vanadium as impurities. Its type locality is the Tsumeb Mine in Namibia where it occurs in a hydrothermal polymetallic ore deposit in dolomite in association with renierite, pyrite, tennantite, enargite, galena, sphalerite, digenite, bornite and chalcopyrite. It has also been reported from Argentina, Armenia, Bulgaria, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire), Finland, France, Greece, Japan, Republic of Congo (Brazzaville), Russia and the United States.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Germanite 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.
Germanite Localities Map
See where Germanite 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
- Pale greyish-pink
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4
- Density
- 4.3 g/cm³
- Streak
- Dark gray to black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu13Fe2Ge2S16
- Elements
- Cu, Fe, Ge, S
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Germanite FAQs
How do I identify Germanite?
Germanite can be identified by its hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, Pale greyish-pink color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Germanite?
Germanite typically appears in Pale greyish-pink. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Germanite?
Germanite has a hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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