Florensovite is a rare copper chromium sulfide member of the spinel group. It is primarily identified in hydrothermal sulfide deposits and typically appears as small, metallic dark grey to black grains.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareSpinel Supergroup family

Florensovite

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

No image

Is this florensovite?

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 florensovite with a known reference. Florensovite 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. Florensovite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Florensovite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: dark gray, black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: granular to massive.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside florensovite

Minerals reported to co-occur with florensovite. 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: 4.8 g/cm³
Colors: Dark Gray Black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Granular to Massive
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Sulfide Deposits
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find florensovite

Classic worldwide localities

Florensov deposit, Eastern Siberia, Russia

Field-hunting tip

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

Common questions

How do you identify florensovite?+

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

Where is florensovite found?+

Notable localities include Florensov deposit, Eastern Siberia, Russia.

How much is florensovite 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 florensovite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains copper and chromium; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust if crushed. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like florensovite?+

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

What minerals are found with florensovite?+

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

What kind of rock does florensovite form in?+

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

What is florensovite used for?+

Florensovite is used in collector.

Find florensovite on the map

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