Murdochite specimens for sale
1 for sale · $250 USD
2 in the gallery
Murdochite is a simple oxide mineral that forms in isometric systems, often presenting as black, opaque crystals with a submetallic lustre. Its habit is commonly octahedral, and its crystals can exhibit a distinct cleavage, adding to the sharp, faceted appearance prized by collectors. The mineral contains lead and copper oxides, contributing to a dense feel and a relatively high specific gravity for oxide minerals, typically in the 5.9–6.7 range.
- Formula
- PbCu6O8-x(Cl,Br)2x
- Classification notes
- Simple Oxides
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- isometric
- Mohs hardness
- 4
- Specific gravity
- 5.9–6.7
- Luster
- submetallic
- Transparency
- opaque
- Color
- black
- Streak
- black
- Cleavage
- distinct
- Crystal habit
- octahedral
Buy Murdochite specimens
View all 1Where Murdochite is found
Top localities
- Bisbee2 specimens
- Ojuela Mine1 specimen
About Murdochite
Notable specimens have been reported from the United States and Mexico, where Murdochite occurs in environments associated with oxidized lead-copper systems. Specimens can be compact and lustrous, with a deep black coloration that makes the crystals stand out against lighter matrix material. Collectors value Murdochite for its crisp geometry, dark aesthetics, and the way its octahedral forms demonstrate the mineral’s crystallographic symmetry, even when isolated fragments are small. For display or study, Murdochite offers a visually striking example of simple oxide chemistry and the interplay of copper and lead within an oxide lattice.
