Skaergaardite
A variety of Minerals
What is Skaergaardite?
Skaergaardite is an intermetallic platinum group mineral with the general chemical formula PdCu. The mineral is named after its discovery location: the Skaergaard intrusion, Kangerdlugssuaq area, East Greenland. The mineral name was approved by the International Mineralogical Association in 2003. The mineral has also been reported in the Duluth intrusion in Minnesota and the Rum layered intrusion in Scotland.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Skaergaardite 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.
Skaergaardite Localities Map
See where Skaergaardite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Skaergaardite
When viewed under a microscope in plane polarized light, skaergaardite appears to be bright creamy white (in the presence of bornite or chalcopyrite) or bright white (in the presence of digenite or chalcocite). When the mineral is rotated on the microscope stage its color does not change, indicating that it is non-pleochroic. Under crossed polar light, skaergaardite appears completely dark no matter the direction the stage is rotated, indicating that the mineral is isotropic. As skaergaardite is isotropic, it is also non-birefringent.
Formation of Skaergaardite
Skaergaardite is associated with igneous intrusions containing well-preserved, oxide-rich, tholeiitic gabbro. It is found as inclusions in titanian magnetite, ilmenite, pyroxenes, and plagioclase. Skaergaardite can occur as an inclusion by itself, but is more commonly found in composite microglobule inclusions of copper iron sulfide minerals and other precious metal bearing minerals.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Steel grey
- Density
- 10.64 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- PdCu
- Elements
- Cu, Pd
Identify Skaergaardite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Skaergaardite FAQs
How do I identify Skaergaardite?
Skaergaardite can be identified by its Steel grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Skaergaardite?
Skaergaardite typically appears in Steel grey. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
What is the characteristics of skaergaardite of Skaergaardite?
When viewed under a microscope in plane polarized light, skaergaardite appears to be bright creamy white (in the presence of bornite or chalcopyrite) or bright white (in the presence of digenite or chalcocite). When the mineral is rotated on the microscope stage its color does not change, indicating that it is non-pleochroic. Under crossed polar light, skaergaardite appears completely dark no matter the direction the stage is rotated, indicating that the mineral is isotropic. As skaergaardite is isotropic, it is also non-birefringent.
What is the formation of skaergaardite of Skaergaardite?
Skaergaardite is associated with igneous intrusions containing well-preserved, oxide-rich, tholeiitic gabbro. It is found as inclusions in titanian magnetite, ilmenite, pyroxenes, and plagioclase. Skaergaardite can occur as an inclusion by itself, but is more commonly found in composite microglobule inclusions of copper iron sulfide minerals and other precious metal bearing minerals.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
