Eskebornite
A variety of Chalcopyrite Group
What is Eskebornite?
Eskebornite is a selenide mineral with the formula CuFeSe2. It crystallizes in the tetragonal system and it has a brassy colour. Eskebornite is sometimes found as thick tabular crystals, but is more often found intergrown with other selenides. It is part of the chalcopyrite group and forms a series with chalcopyrite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Eskebornite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Eskebornite Localities Map
See where Eskebornite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Eskebornite
Eskebornite was first identified in 1949 by Paul Ramdohr in the Eskaborn Adit, Tilkerode (Abberode), Harz, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, which it was also named after. It is often found with other selenides, including clausthalite, tiemannite, berzelianite, naumannite, umangite, geffroyite, and chaméanite, but also with other minerals like chalcopyrite, uraninite, ankerite, and dolomite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Brass yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3 - 3.5
- Density
- 5.44 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- CuFeSe2
- Elements
- Cu, Fe, Se

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Eskebornite FAQs
How do I identify Eskebornite?
Eskebornite can be identified by its hardness of 3 - 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Brass yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Eskebornite?
Eskebornite typically appears in Brass yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Eskebornite?
Eskebornite has a hardness of 3 - 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of eskebornite of Eskebornite?
Eskebornite was first identified in 1949 by Paul Ramdohr in the Eskaborn Adit, Tilkerode (Abberode), Harz, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, which it was also named after. It is often found with other selenides, including clausthalite, tiemannite, berzelianite, naumannite, umangite, geffroyite, and chaméanite, but also with other minerals like chalcopyrite, uraninite, ankerite, and dolomite.
