Violarite
A variety of Minerals
What is Violarite?
Violarite (FeNi2S4) is a supergene sulfide mineral associated with the weathering and oxidation of primary pentlandite nickel sulfide ore minerals. Violarite crystallises in the isometric system, with a hardness of 4.5 to 5.5 and a specific gravity of about 4, is dark violet grey 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. Violarite has a characteristic violet colour, hence the name from the Latin 'violaris' alluding to its colour especially when viewed in polished section under a microscope.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Violarite 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.
Violarite Localities Map
See where Violarite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Violarite
Violarite is reported widely from the oxidised regolith above primary nickel sulfide ore systems worldwide. It is of particular note from the Mount Keith dunite body, Western Australia, where it forms an important ore mineral. It is also reported from open cast mines around the Kambalda Dome, and Widgiemooltha Dome, in association with polydymite, gaspeite, widgiemoolthalite and hellyerite, among other supergene nickel minerals.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Violet gray, copper red, light gray, or steel gray
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5 - 5.5
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Fe2+Ni3+2S4
- Elements
- Fe, Ni, S
Identify Violarite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Violarite FAQs
How do I identify Violarite?
Violarite 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 Violarite?
Violarite typically appears in Violet gray, copper red, light gray, or steel gray. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Violarite?
Violarite has a hardness of 4.5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of violarite of Violarite?
Violarite is reported widely from the oxidised regolith above primary nickel sulfide ore systems worldwide. It is of particular note from the Mount Keith dunite body, Western Australia, where it forms an important ore mineral. It is also reported from open cast mines around the Kambalda Dome, and Widgiemooltha Dome, in association with polydymite, gaspeite, widgiemoolthalite and hellyerite, among other supergene nickel minerals.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
