Eclarite is an extremely rare lead-copper-bismuth sulfosalt that typically occurs in lead-rich hydrothermal veins. It is most frequently found as small, lead-gray prismatic crystals within the famous dolomitic rocks of the Binnental region.

Hardness

3.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Eclarite

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

Is this eclarite?

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 eclarite with a known reference. Eclarite 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. Eclarite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Eclarite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: lead-gray, iron-black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic, elongated grains.

Often confused with

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

mineral

Galena

Mohs 2.5

How to tell apart: Eclarite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3.5 vs. 2.5); streak differs, so Eclarite leaves black, Galena leaves lead-gray.

How to tell apart: Eclarite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3.5 vs. 2); streak differs, so Eclarite leaves black, Bismuthinite leaves lead-gray.

How to tell apart: Eclarite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3.5 vs. 2-2.5); streak differs, so Eclarite leaves black, Aikinite leaves lead-gray.

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Often found alongside eclarite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₉Cu₃Bi₁₂S₂₈
Mohs hardness: 3.5
Density: 6.32 g/cm³
Colors: Lead-gray Iron-black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic, Elongated Grains
Cleavage: Poor
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Dolomite Veins
Typical price: $50-300 per small specimen

Where rockhounds find eclarite

Classic worldwide localities

Binnental, Valais, Switzerland
Gladhammar, Sweden

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal dolomite veins country, the host setting where eclarite typically forms. If you start seeing dolomite, pyrite, sphalerite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic, elongated grains habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify eclarite?+

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

Where is eclarite found?+

Notable localities include Binnental, Valais, Switzerland; Gladhammar, Sweden.

How much is eclarite worth?+

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

Is eclarite safe to handle?+

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

What rocks look like eclarite?+

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

What minerals are found with eclarite?+

Eclarite commonly co-occurs with Dolomite, Pyrite, Sphalerite, Tennantite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does eclarite form in?+

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

What is eclarite used for?+

Eclarite is used in collector.

Find eclarite on the map

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