Polydymite
A variety of Minerals
What is Polydymite?
Polydymite, NiNi2S4, is a supergene thiospinel sulfide mineral associated with the weathering of primary pentlandite nickel sulfide. Polydymite crystallises in the isometric system, with a hardness of 4.5 to 5.5 and a specific gravity of about 4, is dark violet gray to copper-red, often with verdigris and patina from associated copper and arsenic sulfides, and is typically in amorphous to massive infill of lower saprolite ultramafic lithologies. Polydymite is the nickel equivalent of violarite and in many cases these two minerals are formed together, potentially in solid solution. Common contaminants of polydymite are cobalt and iron. Polydymite forms a series with linnaeite, CoCo2S4.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Polydymite 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.
Polydymite Localities Map
See where Polydymite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Polydymite
Polydymite is reported widely from the oxidised regolith above primary nickel sulfide ore systems worldwide. It is less common than related violarite, due to the high iron content of most primary sulfides.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Violet gray, copper red, light gray, or steel gray
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5 - 5.5
- Streak
- Black gray
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ni2+Ni3+2S4
- Elements
- Ni, S
Also Known As
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Polydymite FAQs
How do I identify Polydymite?
Polydymite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Violet gray color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Polydymite?
Polydymite typically appears in Violet gray, copper red, light gray, or steel gray. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Polydymite?
Polydymite has a hardness of 4.5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of polydymite of Polydymite?
Polydymite is reported widely from the oxidised regolith above primary nickel sulfide ore systems worldwide. It is less common than related violarite, due to the high iron content of most primary sulfides.
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