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

Mohs

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareTetrahedrite Group family

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe)

Hardness: ~4
Transparency: Opaque

Is this argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?

2-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 ~4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
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: ~4
Density: 5.0-5.4 g/cm³
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Tetrahedral crystals, massive, granular
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector, Ore of silver
Host rock: Found in hydrothermal veins and contact metamorphic deposits

Where rockhounds find argentotetrahedrite-(fe)

Classic worldwide localities

Keno Hill, Yukon, Canada

Field-hunting tip

Where it forms: Found in hydrothermal veins and contact metamorphic deposits. If you start seeing galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite in float, you are in the right ground. Typical habit: tetrahedral crystals, massive, granular. Train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?+

Mohs hardness is ~4.

Where is argentotetrahedrite-(fe) found?+

Notable localities include Keno Hill, Yukon, Canada.

Is argentotetrahedrite-(fe) safe to handle?+

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) contains antimony and copper. Contains silver, copper, iron, antimony, and sulfur; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust due to potential heavy metal content.

What rocks look like argentotetrahedrite-(fe)?+

Argentotetrahedrite-(Fe) is most often confused with Tetrahedrite, Tennantite. 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?+

Where it forms: Found in hydrothermal veins and contact metamorphic deposits. 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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