Xilingolite

A variety of Minerals

Xilingolite specimen

What is Xilingolite?

Xilingolite is a lead sulfide mineral with formula Pb3Bi2S6. It has a hardness of 3, a metallic luster, and usually exhibits a lead-grey color. It is a dimorph of lillianite, exhibiting increased Pb-Bi order and decreased symmetry. Its crystal system is monoclinic, with three axes of unequal length two of which are at an oblique angle to each other while the third axis is perpendicular to the plane formed by the other two. Xilingolite is opaque, meaning that its internal structure does not allow for light to be transmitted through it. The mineral also exhibits white to blue-tinted-white pleochroism under reflected light.

Market Value Factors

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

Xilingolite Localities Map

See where Xilingolite 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.

Key Characteristics

Formation of Xilingolite

Xilingolite was first described in 1982 for an occurrence in an iron-rich skarn deposit in the Chaobuleng district of the Xilingoa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. Its name is derived from the locality in which it was originally found. Xilingolite is also known to occur in various localities in Valais, Switzerland. At the type locality it occurs associated with magnetite, sphalerite, pyrrhotite, pyrite, arsenopyrite, chalcopyrite, digenite, bornite, molybdenite, galena, native bismuth and bismuthinite.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Lead-grey
Hardness (Mohs)
3
Density
7.07 g/cm³
Streak
Gray

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Pb3Bi2S6
Elements
Bi, Pb, S
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Xilingolite FAQs

How do I identify Xilingolite?

Xilingolite can be identified by its hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, Lead-grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Xilingolite?

Xilingolite typically appears in Lead-grey. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Xilingolite?

Xilingolite has a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

What is the formation of xilingolite of Xilingolite?

Xilingolite was first described in 1982 for an occurrence in an iron-rich skarn deposit in the Chaobuleng district of the Xilingoa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. Its name is derived from the locality in which it was originally found. Xilingolite is also known to occur in various localities in Valais, Switzerland. At the type locality it occurs associated with magnetite, sphalerite, pyrrhotite, pyrite, arsenopyrite, chalcopyrite, digenite, bornite, molybdenite, galena, native bismuth and bismuthinite.

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