Oscarkempffite is a rare silver-lead sulfosalt mineral primarily identified in hydrothermal deposits. It is typically found in close association with other complex sulfosalts and metallic sulfides in silver-bearing mine environments. Collectors prize it for its rarity and its distinct occurrence in the famous Pulacayo mine locality.

Hardness

2.5-3

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Oscarkempffite

Hardness: 2.5-3
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

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Is this oscarkempffite?

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 oscarkempffite with a known reference. Oscarkempffite sits at Mohs 2.5-3 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Oscarkempffite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Oscarkempffite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: lead-gray, black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: anhedral grains.

Often found alongside oscarkempffite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Ag₁₀Pb₂Sb₁₀S₂₃
Mohs hardness: 2.5-3
Density: 6.12 g/cm³
Colors: Lead-gray Black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Anhedral Grains
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Silver-lead-zinc Veins
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen quality

Where rockhounds find oscarkempffite

Classic worldwide localities

Pulacayo mine, Bolivia

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal silver-lead-zinc veins country — that is the host setting where oscarkempffite typically forms. If you start seeing galena, pyrite, sphalerite 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 oscarkempffite?+

Mohs hardness is 2.5-3. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include lead-gray, black.

Where is oscarkempffite found?+

Notable localities include Pulacayo mine, Bolivia.

How much is oscarkempffite worth?+

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

Is oscarkempffite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead and silver; handle with care, wash hands after handling, and avoid dust inhalation. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with oscarkempffite?+

Oscarkempffite commonly co-occurs with Galena, Pyrite, Sphalerite, Stannite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does oscarkempffite form in?+

Oscarkempffite typically forms in hydrothermal silver-lead-zinc veins. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is oscarkempffite used for?+

Oscarkempffite is used in collector.

Find oscarkempffite on the map

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