Cylindrite

Cylindrite
Cylindrite

Trinacria Mine, Callipampa, Poopó Province, Oruro Department, Bolivia
General
Category Sulfosalt minerals
Chemical formula Pb3Sn4FeSb2S14
Strunz classification 02.HF.25a
Dana classification 03.01.04.01
Identification
Molar mass 1,844.71
Colour Lead grey, greyish black
Crystal habit Cylindrical
Crystal system Triclinic
Cleavage Perfect on {100}
Tenacity Malleable
Mohs scale hardness 2 ½
Luster Metallic
Streak Black
Diaphaneity Opaque
Specific gravity 5.4 - 5.42
References [1][2][3]

Cylindrite is a sulfosalt mineral containing tin, lead, antimony and iron with formula: Pb3Sn4FeSb2S14. It forms triclinic pinacoidal crystals which often occur as tubes or cylinders which are in fact rolled sheets. It has a black to lead grey metallic colour with a Mohs hardness of 2 to 3 and a specific gravity of 5.4.

It was first discovered in the Santa Cruz mine, Oruro Department, Bolivia in 1893. The name arises from its curious cylindrical crystal which it forms almost uniquely among minerals.

See also

DirkvdM rocks.jpg Earth sciences portal

References