Xifengite

A variety of Minerals

What is Xifengite?

Xifengite (Fe5Si3) is a rare metallic iron silicide mineral. The crystal system of xifengite is hexagonal. It has a specific gravity of 6.45 and a Mohs hardness of 5.5. It occurs as steel gray inclusions within other meteorite derived nickel iron mineral phases. It was first described in 1984 and named for the eastern passageway, Xifengkou, of the Great Wall of China. The type locality is the Yanshan meteorite of the Hebei Province, China. It has also been reported from dredgings along the East Pacific Rise. The other known natural iron silicide minerals are gupeiite (Fe3Si), hapkeite (Fe2Si), linzhiite (FeSi2), luobusaite (Fe0.84Si2), naquite (FeSi), suessite (Fe,Ni)3Si, and zangboite (TiFeSi2).

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Xifengite 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Xifengite Localities Map

See where Xifengite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Grey, Steel-black
Hardness (Mohs)
5
Streak
Black

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Fe5Si3
Elements
Fe, Si
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Xifengite FAQs

How do I identify Xifengite?

Xifengite can be identified by its hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale, Grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Xifengite?

Xifengite typically appears in Grey, Steel-black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Xifengite?

Xifengite has a hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

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