Valleriite
A variety of Minerals
What is Valleriite?
Valleriite is an uncommon sulfide mineral (hydroxysulfide) of iron and copper with formula: 4(Fe,Cu)S·3(Mg,Al)(OH)2 or (Fe,Cu)4(Mg,Al)3S4(OH,O)6. It is an opaque, soft, bronze-yellow to brown mineral which occurs as nodules or encrustations.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Valleriite 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.
Valleriite Localities Map
See where Valleriite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Valleriite
Valleriite was first described in 1870 from an occurrence in Västmanland, Sweden. It was named for Swedish chemist Johan Gottschalk Wallerius (Vallerius) (1709–1785). Valleriite occurs in dunites and chromitites replacing chalcopyrite in Cyprus. In Phalaborwa, South Africa it occurs as replacement of magnetite in a carbonatite. It occurs as replacements of copper and nickel phases in serpentinites and other altered ultramafic rocks.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark gray-bronze-yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1 - 1.5
- Density
- 3.21 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Fe2+,Cu)4(Mg,Al)3S4(OH,O)6
- Elements
- Al, Cu, Fe, H, Mg, O, S
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Valleriite FAQs
How do I identify Valleriite?
Valleriite can be identified by its hardness of 1 - 1.5 on the Mohs scale, Dark gray-bronze-yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Valleriite?
Valleriite typically appears in Dark gray-bronze-yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Valleriite?
Valleriite has a hardness of 1 - 1.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of valleriite of Valleriite?
Valleriite was first described in 1870 from an occurrence in Västmanland, Sweden. It was named for Swedish chemist Johan Gottschalk Wallerius (Vallerius) (1709–1785). Valleriite occurs in dunites and chromitites replacing chalcopyrite in Cyprus. In Phalaborwa, South Africa it occurs as replacement of magnetite in a carbonatite. It occurs as replacements of copper and nickel phases in serpentinites and other altered ultramafic rocks.
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