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, 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.