Arsenopolybasite specimens for sale
1 for sale · $8,500 USD
2 in the gallery
Arsenopolybasite is a sulfosalt mineral in the pearceite-polybasite group, typically forming opaque, metallic crystals with a black to gray color. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and presents a tabular to prismatic habit, often found as uneven fractures or aggregates rather than well-formed single crystals. The mineral's lustre is metallic, and its specific gravity is relatively high, reflecting its heavy metal content. In hand samples, Arsenopolybasite can appear as dark, dense masses or prismatic crystals that contribute striking contrasts in a collection.
- Formula
- [(Ag,Cu)6(As,Sb)2S7][Ag9CuS4]
- Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- High Interest
- Classification notes
- Sulfosalts; Pearceite-polybasite group; Strunz 2.GB.15
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- monoclinic
- Mohs hardness
- 2.5–3
- Specific gravity
- 6.1–6.3
- Luster
- metallic
- Transparency
- opaque
- Color
- black, gray
- Streak
- black
- Cleavage
- poor
- Fracture
- uneven
- Crystal habit
- tabular, prismatic, massive
Buy Arsenopolybasite specimens
View all 1
Where Arsenopolybasite is found
Top localities
- Uchucchacua Mine1 specimen
About Arsenopolybasite
Notable occurrences are reported from Peru, where unique sulfosalt assemblages can produce rich, lustrous specimens. These localities often yield specimens with complex intergrowths and attractive crystal forms that appeal to collectors seeking unusual sulfide and sulfosalt species. Collectors appreciate Arsenopolybasite for its rarity within the Pearceite-polybasite group and its distinctive dark appearance that stands apart from common sulfides. While not as widely represented as more common minerals, high-quality samples from select pockets are cherished for display and study alike.