Idaite is a rare copper iron sulfide mineral typically identified by its distinct bronze-red metallic luster and lack of significant crystal faces. It is almost exclusively found in massive form as an alteration product within complex copper deposits. Collectors usually find it alongside larger deposits of bornite or chalcopyrite, from which it is often derived.
Is this idaite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch idaite with a known reference. Idaite sits at Mohs 3 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Idaite leaves a black streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Idaite typically shows a metallic luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: reddish-brown, bronze, copper-red.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: massive.
Often confused with
Idaite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
How to tell apart: Streak differs — Idaite leaves black, Bornite leaves greyish black.
How to tell apart: Idaite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3 vs. 1.5-2); streak differs — Idaite leaves black, Covellite leaves lead gray to black.
How to tell apart: Streak differs — Idaite leaves black, Chalcopyrite leaves greenish-black.
Often found alongside idaite
Minerals reported to co-occur with idaite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Cu₅.5FeS₆.5
- Mohs hardness
- 3
- Density
- 4.57 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
- Luster
- Metallic
- Transparency
- Opaque
- Crystal system
- Hexagonal
- Crystal habit
- Massive
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Hydrothermal Copper-bearing Veins
- Typical price
- $20-150 for thumbnail to small cabinet specimens
Where rockhounds find idaite
Classic worldwide localities
- Ida Mine, Namibia
- Bor, Serbia
- Chuquicamata, Chile
- Leonard Mine, Butte, USA
Field-hunting tip
Look in hydrothermal copper-bearing veins country — that is the host setting where idaite typically forms. If you start seeing bornite, chalcopyrite, covellite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find idaite on the map
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