Jalpaite
2 in the gallery
Jalpaite is a copper-rich sulfide mineral with a complex formula that reflects copper, iron, zinc and sulfur in a sulfide lattice. Crystals are typically small but may form compact aggregates with a metallic luster and a bronze to coppery hue, often displaying a bright, lustrous surface that hints at its metallic character. The mineral commonly occurs in sulfide-rich hydrothermal veins and associated sulfide assemblages.
- Formula
Cu₃(Fe,Zn)₂S₂ - Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- High Interest
- Classification notes
- Sulfide; Strunz 2.BA metal sulfides, M:S > 1:1
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- tetragonal
- Mohs hardness
- 2.5–3
- Specific gravity
- 6.7–6.9
- Luster
- metallic
- Transparency
- opaque
- Color
- gray, black
- Streak
- black
- Cleavage
- none
- Fracture
- subconchoidal, uneven
- Crystal habit
- granular, massive
- Classic / historic
Where Jalpaite is found
Top localities
- Zacatecas1 specimen
About Jalpaite
Notable specimens have been reported from Mexico, where Jalpaite crystals can form in assemblages with other copper sulfides and iron sulfides. Collectors value Jalpaite for its distinctive brass-like color and reflective surfaces, as well as its rarity on the market. While individual crystals may be modest in size, well-formed crystals and attractive groupings are sought after by mineral enthusiasts who appreciate sulfide mineralogy and the interplay of copper, iron, and zinc within the crystal lattice.