Stillwaterite
A variety of Minerals
What is Stillwaterite?
The palladium arsenide mineral Stillwaterite has a general formula of Pd8As3. Stillwaterite was first discovered in the Banded and Upper zones of the Stillwater igneous complex in Montana, United States, and has been reported in the Lac-des-Iles area of Ontario, Canada. Outside of North America, this rare mineral has been found in northern Finland.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Stillwaterite 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.
Stillwaterite Localities Map
See where Stillwaterite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Stillwaterite
Because it is opaque, stillwaterite is most commonly viewed under reflected light, appearing light creamy gray in color. It is weakly anisotropic in air, displaying dark gray to brownish gray color. In oil immersion, it shows distinct anisotropy with brownish black color and a blue to yellow-brown tinge. Hexagonal minerals such as stillwaterite are referred to as uniaxial crystals because they have only one direction, along the optic axis, in which light is not reoriented.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Density
- 10.96 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Pd8As3
- Elements
- As, Pd
Identify Stillwaterite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Stillwaterite FAQs
How do I identify Stillwaterite?
Stillwaterite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
How hard is Stillwaterite?
Stillwaterite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the characteristics of stillwaterite of Stillwaterite?
Because it is opaque, stillwaterite is most commonly viewed under reflected light, appearing light creamy gray in color. It is weakly anisotropic in air, displaying dark gray to brownish gray color. In oil immersion, it shows distinct anisotropy with brownish black color and a blue to yellow-brown tinge. Hexagonal minerals such as stillwaterite are referred to as uniaxial crystals because they have only one direction, along the optic axis, in which light is not reoriented.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
