Krennerite
A variety of Minerals
What is Krennerite?
Krennerite is an orthorhombic gold telluride mineral which can contain variable amounts of silver in the structure. The formula is AuTe2, but specimen with gold substituted by up to 24% with silver have been found ([Au0.77Ag0.24]Te2). Both of the chemically similar gold-silver tellurides, calaverite and sylvanite, are in the monoclinic crystal system, whereas krennerite is orthorhombic. The color varies from silver-white to brass-yellow. It has a specific gravity of 8.62 and a hardness of 2.5. It occurs in high temperature, hydrothermal environments. Krennerite was discovered in 1878 near the village of Săcărâmb, Romania, and first described by the Hungarian mineralogist Joseph Krenner (1839–1920).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Krennerite 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.
Krennerite Localities Map
See where Krennerite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Silver white
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 3
- Density
- 8.86 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Au3AgTe8
- Elements
- Ag, Au, Te
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Krennerite FAQs
How do I identify Krennerite?
Krennerite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Silver white color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Krennerite?
Krennerite typically appears in Silver white. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Krennerite?
Krennerite has a hardness of 2 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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