Cuprokalininite is a rare copper-chromium sulfide belonging to the spinel group. It typically appears as opaque, metallic black octahedral crystals found in association with hydrothermal sulfide ore bodies.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareSpinel Group family

Cuprokalininite

Hardness: 5-6
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

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Is this cuprokalininite?

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 cuprokalininite with a known reference. Cuprokalininite sits at Mohs 5-6, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Cuprokalininite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Cuprokalininite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals, massive.

Often confused with

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

How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Cuprokalininite leaves black, Chromite leaves dark brown; luster reads metallic on Cuprokalininite and submetallic on Chromite.

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Often found alongside cuprokalininite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: CuCr₂S₄
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 4.9-5.1 g/cm³
Colors: Black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Octahedral Crystals, Massive
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Sulfide Deposits
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen depending on size and provenance

Where rockhounds find cuprokalininite

Classic worldwide localities

Kalinina deposit, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal sulfide deposits country, the host setting where cuprokalininite typically forms. If you start seeing galena, pyrite, chalcopyrite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a octahedral crystals, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify cuprokalininite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-6. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include black.

Where is cuprokalininite found?+

Notable localities include Kalinina deposit, Russia.

How much is cuprokalininite worth?+

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

Is cuprokalininite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains copper and chromium; avoid dust inhalation and ingestion. Wash hands thoroughly after handling specimens. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like cuprokalininite?+

Cuprokalininite is most often confused with Magnetite, Chromite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with cuprokalininite?+

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

What kind of rock does cuprokalininite form in?+

Cuprokalininite typically forms in hydrothermal sulfide deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is cuprokalininite used for?+

Cuprokalininite is used in collector.

Find cuprokalininite on the map

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