Kesterite
A variety of Minerals
What is Kesterite?
Kesterite is a sulfide mineral with a chemical formula of Cu2(Zn,Fe)SnS4. In its lattice structure, zinc and iron atoms share the same lattice sites. Kesterite is the Zn-rich variety whereas the Zn-poor form is called ferrokesterite or stannite. Owing to their similarity, kesterite is sometimes called isostannite. The synthetic form of kesterite is abbreviated as CZTS (from copper zinc tin sulfide). The name kesterite is sometimes extended to include this synthetic material and also CZTSe, which contains selenium instead of sulfur.
Uses & Applications
Kesterite like substances are being researched as a solar photovoltaic material.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Kesterite 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.
Kesterite Localities Map
See where Kesterite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Kesterite
Kesterite was first described in 1958 in regard to an occurrence in the Kester deposit (and the associated locality) in Ynnakh Mountain, Yana basin, Yakutia, Russia, where it was discovered. It is usually found in quartz-sulfide hydrothermal veins associated with tin ore deposits. Associated minerals include arsenopyrite, stannoidite, chalcopyrite, chalcocite, sphalerite and tennantite. Stannite and kesterite occur together in the Ivigtut cryolite deposit of South Greenland. Solid solutions form between Cu2FeSnS4 and Cu2ZnSnS4 at temperatures above 680 °C. This accounts for the exsolved kesterite in stannite found in the cryolite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Greenish black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu2ZnSnS4
- Elements
- Cu, S, Sn, Zn
Also Known As
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Kesterite FAQs
How do I identify Kesterite?
Kesterite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Greenish black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Kesterite?
Kesterite typically appears in Greenish black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Kesterite?
Kesterite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of kesterite of Kesterite?
Kesterite was first described in 1958 in regard to an occurrence in the Kester deposit (and the associated locality) in Ynnakh Mountain, Yana basin, Yakutia, Russia, where it was discovered. It is usually found in quartz-sulfide hydrothermal veins associated with tin ore deposits. Associated minerals include arsenopyrite, stannoidite, chalcopyrite, chalcocite, sphalerite and tennantite. Stannite and kesterite occur together in the Ivigtut cryolite deposit of South Greenland. Solid solutions form between Cu2FeSnS4 and Cu2ZnSnS4 at temperatures above 680 °C. This accounts for the exsolved kesterite in stannite found in the cryolite.
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