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 — 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 — that is 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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