Aschamalmite is a rare lead-bismuth sulfosalt that occurs primarily in metamorphic environments. It typically forms microscopic lead-gray metallic grains and is usually identified through X-ray diffraction or electron microprobe analysis rather than visual inspection alone.

Hardness

2.5-3

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareLillianite Homologous Series family

Aschamalmite

Hardness: 2.5-3
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

Is this aschamalmite?

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 aschamalmite with a known reference. Aschamalmite sits at Mohs 2.5-3, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Aschamalmite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Aschamalmite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: lead-gray, grayish-black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: subhedral to anhedral grains, elongated prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

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

mineral

Galena

Mohs 2.5

How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Aschamalmite leaves black, Galena leaves lead-gray.

Often found alongside aschamalmite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₆Bi₂S₉
Mohs hardness: 2.5-3
Density: 7.24 g/cm³
Colors: Lead-gray Grayish-black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Subhedral to Anhedral Grains, Elongated Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: None Observed
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find aschamalmite

Classic worldwide localities

Habachtal, Austria
Salzburg, Austria

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphic rocks country, the host setting where aschamalmite typically forms. If you start seeing pyrite, chalcopyrite, quartz in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a subhedral to anhedral grains, elongated prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify aschamalmite?+

Mohs hardness is 2.5-3. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include lead-gray, grayish-black.

Where is aschamalmite found?+

Notable localities include Habachtal, Austria; Salzburg, Austria.

How much is aschamalmite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is aschamalmite safe to handle?+

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

What rocks look like aschamalmite?+

Aschamalmite is most often confused with Galena, Cosalite, Lillianite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with aschamalmite?+

Aschamalmite commonly co-occurs with Pyrite, Chalcopyrite, Quartz, Bismuthinite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does aschamalmite form in?+

Aschamalmite typically forms in metamorphic rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is aschamalmite used for?+

Aschamalmite is used in collector.

Find aschamalmite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.