Arsenquatrandorite is an extremely rare sulfosalt mineral primarily found in polymetallic hydrothermal deposits. It is identified by its metallic, lead-gray appearance and distinct striations on prismatic crystals, requiring professional chemical analysis for definitive identification.

Hardness

3.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareQuatrandorite family

Arsenquatrandorite

Hardness: 3.5
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

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Is this arsenquatrandorite?

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 arsenquatrandorite with a known reference. Arsenquatrandorite sits at Mohs 3.5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Arsenquatrandorite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Arsenquatrandorite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: lead-gray, steel-gray.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: prismatic, striated, massive.

Often confused with

Arsenquatrandorite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside arsenquatrandorite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₁₆Ag₁₄Sb₃₂As₁₀S₈₈
Mohs hardness: 3.5
Density: 5.68 g/cm³
Colors: Lead-gray Steel-gray
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Prismatic, Striated, Massive
Cleavage: Poor
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins
Typical price: $100-500 per specimen

Where rockhounds find arsenquatrandorite

Classic worldwide localities

Bolivia

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins country, the host setting where arsenquatrandorite typically forms. If you start seeing stannite, arsenopyrite, galena in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic, striated, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify arsenquatrandorite?+

Mohs hardness is 3.5. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include lead-gray, steel-gray.

Where is arsenquatrandorite found?+

Notable localities include Bolivia.

How much is arsenquatrandorite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $100-500 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is arsenquatrandorite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, lead, and silver; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like arsenquatrandorite?+

Arsenquatrandorite is most often confused with Quatrandorite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with arsenquatrandorite?+

Arsenquatrandorite commonly co-occurs with Stannite, Arsenopyrite, Galena, Siderite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does arsenquatrandorite form in?+

Arsenquatrandorite typically forms in hydrothermal veins. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is arsenquatrandorite used for?+

Arsenquatrandorite is used in collector.

Find arsenquatrandorite on the map

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