Vulcanite
A variety of Minerals
What is Vulcanite?
Vulcanite is a rare copper telluride mineral. The mineral has a metallic luster, and has a green or bronze-yellow tint. It has a hardness between 1 and 2 on the Mohs scale (between talc and gypsum). Its crystal structure is orthorhombic. Vulcanite is named for the place where it was discovered in 1961, the Mammoth Good Hope Mine in Vulcan (ghost town and district), Gunnison County, Colorado. Small deposits have also been discovered in Japan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Norway. It occurs with native tellurium, rickardite, petzite, and sylvanite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Vulcanite 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.
Vulcanite Localities Map
See where Vulcanite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Bronze-yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1 - 2
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- CuTe
- Elements
- Cu, Te
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Vulcanite FAQs
How do I identify Vulcanite?
Vulcanite can be identified by its hardness of 1 - 2 on the Mohs scale, Bronze-yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Vulcanite?
Vulcanite typically appears in Bronze-yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Vulcanite?
Vulcanite has a hardness of 1 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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