Keyite
A variety of Minerals
What is Keyite?
Keyite is a mineral with the chemical formula Cu3Zn4Cd2(AsO4)6 · 2H2O. The name comes from Charles Locke Key (born 1935), an American mineral dealer who furnished its first specimens. Keyite is monoclinic-prismatic, meaning its crystal form has three unequal axes, two of which have 90° angles between them and one with an angle less than 90°. Keyite belongs to the biaxial optical class, meaning it has more than one axis of anisotropy (optic axis), in which light travels with zero birefringence, and three indices of refraction, nα = 1.800, nβ, and nγ = 1.870. Being a very rare cadmium copper arsenate, keyite is only found in Tsumeb, Namibia in the Tsumeb mine, a world-famous copper mine known for its abundance of rare and unusual minerals.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Keyite 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.
Keyite Localities Map
See where Keyite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Deep sky blue, blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5 - 4
- Density
- 4.95 g/cm³
- Streak
- Pale blue
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu2+3Zn4Cd2(AsO4)6 · 2H2O
- Elements
- As, Cd, Cu, H, O, Zn
Identify Keyite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Keyite FAQs
How do I identify Keyite?
Keyite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Deep sky blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Keyite?
Keyite typically appears in Deep sky blue, blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Keyite?
Keyite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
