Maikainite is a very rare sulfide mineral first identified in the Maikain gold deposit of Kazakhstan. It typically presents as metallic, opaque masses within complex polymetallic sulfide ores alongside minerals like chalcopyrite and pyrite.

Hardness

3.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Maikainite

Hardness: 3.5
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

No image

Is this maikainite?

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 maikainite with a known reference. Maikainite sits at Mohs 3.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Maikainite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Maikainite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: black, dark gray.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: massive, granular aggregates.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside maikainite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu₂₀Fe₆Mo₂W₂S₃₂
Mohs hardness: 3.5
Density: 5.68 g/cm³
Colors: Black Dark Gray
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Tetragonal
Crystal habit: Massive, Granular Aggregates
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Sulfide Deposits
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen size and quality

Where rockhounds find maikainite

Classic worldwide localities

Maikain gold deposit, Kazakhstan

Field-hunting tip

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

Common questions

How do you identify maikainite?+

Mohs hardness is 3.5. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include black, dark gray.

Where is maikainite found?+

Notable localities include Maikain gold deposit, Kazakhstan.

How much is maikainite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen size and quality. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is maikainite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains copper, iron, molybdenum, tungsten, and sulfur; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid ingestion or inhalation of dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like maikainite?+

Maikainite is most often confused with Tetrahedrite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with maikainite?+

Maikainite commonly co-occurs with chalcopyrite, pyrite, galena, sphalerite, gold. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does maikainite form in?+

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

What is maikainite used for?+

Maikainite is used in collector.

Find maikainite on the map

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