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 — 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 — that is 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.