Součekite is a rare copper-lead-bismuth sulfide that typically occurs as microscopic grains within complex polymetallic ores. It is primarily found in hydrothermal vein systems and is prized by advanced mineral collectors for its unique compositional chemistry.

Hardness

3.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareStannite Group family

Součekite

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

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Is this součekite?

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 součekite with a known reference. Součekite 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. Součekite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Součekite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: gray, lead-gray.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: grains.

Often confused with

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

mineral

Galena

Mohs 2.5

How to tell apart: Součekite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3.5 vs. 2.5); streak differs — Součekite leaves black, Galena leaves lead-gray.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Součekite leaves black, Bournonite leaves steel-gray.

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Often found alongside součekite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: CuPbBiS₃
Mohs hardness: 3.5
Density: 5.68 g/cm³
Colors: Gray Lead-gray
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Grains
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find součekite

Classic worldwide localities

Kutná Hora, Czech Republic

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins country — that is the host setting where součekite typically forms. If you start seeing galena, chalcopyrite, tetrahedrite 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 součekite?+

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

Where is součekite found?+

Notable localities include Kutná Hora, Czech Republic.

How much is součekite 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 součekite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead and bismuth. Wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust when trimming specimens. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like součekite?+

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

What minerals are found with součekite?+

Součekite commonly co-occurs with Galena, Chalcopyrite, Tetrahedrite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does součekite form in?+

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

What is součekite used for?+

Součekite is used in collector.

Find součekite on the map

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