Eldragónite is a rare copper bismuth selenide mineral identified in the Tuminico mine. It is typically found as small, metallic-gray anhedral grains intergrown with other rare selenide minerals in hydrothermal vein systems.

Hardness

2.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Eldragónite

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

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Is this eldragónite?

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 eldragónite with a known reference. Eldragónite sits at Mohs 2.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Eldragónite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Eldragónite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: steel-gray, black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: anhedral grains.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside eldragónite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu₆BiSe₄
Mohs hardness: 2.5
Density: 5.68 g/cm³
Colors: Steel-gray Black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Anhedral Grains
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find eldragónite

Classic worldwide localities

Tuminico mine, Argentina

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins country — that is the host setting where eldragónite typically forms. If you start seeing berzelianite, umangite, klockmannite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a anhedral grains habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify eldragónite?+

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

Where is eldragónite found?+

Notable localities include Tuminico mine, Argentina.

How much is eldragónite 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 eldragónite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains copper, bismuth, and selenium; handle with care and wash hands after handling. Do not inhale dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like eldragónite?+

Eldragónite is most often confused with Berzelianite, Umangite, Klockmannite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with eldragónite?+

Eldragónite commonly co-occurs with Berzelianite, Umangite, Klockmannite, Eukairite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does eldragónite form in?+

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

What is eldragónite used for?+

Eldragónite is used in collector.

Find eldragónite on the map

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