Pseudomertieite is a rare palladium antimonide mineral typically found as small, microscopic grains within platinum-group element deposits. It is identified primarily through polished section analysis under reflected light, where its distinct metallic luster and specific optical properties are noted in laboratory settings.

Hardness

3.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Pseudomertieite

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

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Is this pseudomertieite?

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 pseudomertieite with a known reference. Pseudomertieite 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. Pseudomertieite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Pseudomertieite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: white, pale yellow.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: grains.

Often confused with

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

How to tell apart: Pseudomertieite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3.5 vs. 2.5).

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Often found alongside pseudomertieite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pd₈Sb₃
Mohs hardness: 3.5
Density: 9.9 g/cm³
Colors: White Pale Yellow
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Grains
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Mafic and Ultramafic Igneous Rocks
Typical price: $100-500 micro-mount

Where rockhounds find pseudomertieite

Classic worldwide localities

Medvezhii Creek, Russia
Stillwater Complex, USA
Bushveld Complex, South Africa
Lac des Iles, Canada

Field-hunting tip

Look in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks country — that is the host setting where pseudomertieite typically forms. If you start seeing palladium, chalcopyrite, pentlandite 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 pseudomertieite?+

Mohs hardness is 3.5. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include white, pale yellow.

Where is pseudomertieite found?+

Notable localities include Medvezhii Creek, Russia; Stillwater Complex, USA; Bushveld Complex, South Africa; Lac des Iles, Canada.

How much is pseudomertieite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $100-500 micro-mount. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is pseudomertieite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains palladium and antimony, which can be toxic if ingested or inhaled as dust; handle with care and wash hands after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like pseudomertieite?+

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

What minerals are found with pseudomertieite?+

Pseudomertieite commonly co-occurs with Palladium, Chalcopyrite, Pentlandite, Sperrylite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does pseudomertieite form in?+

Pseudomertieite typically forms in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is pseudomertieite used for?+

Pseudomertieite is used in collector.

Find pseudomertieite on the map

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