Petzite
7 in the gallery
Petzite is a telluride mineral with a metallic lustre and a gray to black color, typically forming massive or granular habits with equant crystals. It has a relatively low hardness of 2.5 to 3 and a high specific gravity around 8.7 to 9.1, reflecting the presence of silver and gold in its composition. Crystals are uncommon; when present, they are small and often intergrown, contributing to a compact, dense appearance with a subconchoidal to uneven fracture. Its opaque nature and lack of cleavage are consistent with sulfide-telluride minerals, and its isometric crystal system is common among related species.
- Formula
- Ag3AuTe2
- Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- High Interest
- Classification notes
- Sulfides; Tellurides; Strunz 2.BA.75
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- isometric
- Mohs hardness
- 2.5–3
- Specific gravity
- 8.7–9.1
- Luster
- metallic
- Transparency
- opaque
- Color
- gray, black
- Streak
- gray, black
- Cleavage
- none
- Fracture
- subconchoidal, uneven
- Crystal habit
- massive, granular, equant
- Classic / historic
Where Petzite is found
Top localities
- Black Rose Mine1 specimen
About Petzite
Notable specimens of Petzite have been obtained from classic localities that historically yielded telluride riches, reinforcing its status as a mineral of significance to collectors. While not as common as more abundant sulfides, Petzite remains a sought-after example due to its storied past and connection to precious metals. The diverse matrix associations and the mineral’s historic appeal make it a compelling addition for cabinets focused on classic or high-grade telluride species, providing a tangible link to mineralogy’s early collectors and connoisseurs.