Jagüéite is a rare copper palladium selenide mineral typically found as microscopic grains in complex selenide assemblages. It is named after its type locality in Argentina and is primarily sought after by advanced systematic mineral collectors specializing in selenides.

Hardness

2-3

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Jagüéite

Hardness: 2-3
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

No image

Is this jagüéite?

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 jagüéite with a known reference. Jagüéite sits at Mohs 2-3 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Jagüéite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Jagüéite 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: hexagonal. Typical habit: grains.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside jagüéite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu₂Pd₃Se₄
Mohs hardness: 2-3
Density: 6.14 g/cm³
Colors: Dark Gray Black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Grains
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Selenium-rich Veins
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find jagüéite

Classic worldwide localities

Jagüé, La Rioja, Argentina
Hope's Nose, Torquay, Devon, England

Field-hunting tip

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

Common questions

How do you identify jagüéite?+

Mohs hardness is 2-3. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include dark gray, black.

Where is jagüéite found?+

Notable localities include Jagüé, La Rioja, Argentina; Hope's Nose, Torquay, Devon, England.

How much is jagüéite 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 jagüéite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains selenium and copper; avoid inhalation of dust and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Selenium can be hazardous if ingested or processed improperly. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like jagüéite?+

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

What minerals are found with jagüéite?+

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

What kind of rock does jagüéite form in?+

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

What is jagüéite used for?+

Jagüéite is used in collector.

Find jagüéite on the map

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