Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) is a member of the tetrahedrite group, specifically defined by the dominance of silver and iron in its structure. It typically occurs as metallic, tetrahedral crystals or massive aggregates within sulfide-rich hydrothermal vein systems, often appearing indistinguishable from other tetrahedrite group minerals without chemical analysis.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareTetrahedrite Group family

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe)

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

Is this argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch argentotetrahedrite-(fe) with a known reference. Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) sits at Mohs 3-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: steel-gray, iron-black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: tetrahedral crystals, massive, granular.

Often confused with

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside argentotetrahedrite-(fe)

Minerals reported to co-occur with argentotetrahedrite-(fe). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Ag₆(Cu₄Fe₂)Sb₄S₁₃
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 5.0-5.4 g/cm³
Colors: Steel-gray Iron-black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Tetrahedral Crystals, Massive, Granular
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector, Ore of Silver
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins
Typical price: $20-150 for thumbnail to small cabinet specimens

Where rockhounds find argentotetrahedrite-(fe)

Classic worldwide localities

Freiberg, Germany
Příbram, Czech Republic
Bolivia
Idaho, USA
Peru

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins country — that is the host setting where argentotetrahedrite-(fe) typically forms. If you start seeing galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tetrahedral crystals, massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include steel-gray, iron-black.

Where is argentotetrahedrite-(fe) found?+

Notable localities include Freiberg, Germany; Příbram, Czech Republic; Bolivia; Idaho, USA; Peru.

How much is argentotetrahedrite-(fe) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $20-150 for thumbnail to small cabinet specimens. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is argentotetrahedrite-(fe) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains silver, copper, iron, antimony, and sulfur; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust due to potential heavy metal content. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?+

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) is most often confused with Tetrahedrite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?+

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) commonly co-occurs with Galena, Sphalerite, Chalcopyrite, Siderite, Quartz. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does argentotetrahedrite-(fe) form in?+

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) typically forms in hydrothermal veins. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is argentotetrahedrite-(fe) used for?+

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) is used in collector, ore of silver.

Find argentotetrahedrite-(fe) on the map

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