How do I identify Gersdorffite?

Gersdorffite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Gray color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Gersdorffite?

Gersdorffite typically appears in Gray, grayish black, silver white, or tin white. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Gersdorffite?

Gersdorffite has a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

How to Identify Gersdorffite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Gersdorffite?

Gersdorffite is a nickel arsenic sulfide mineral with formula NiAsS. It crystallizes in the isometric system showing diploidal symmetry. It occurs as euhedral to massive opaque, metallic grey-black to silver white forms. Gersdorffite belongs to a solid solution series with cobaltite, CoAsS. Antimony freely substitutes also leading to ullmannite, NiSbS. It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5 and a specific gravity of 5.9 to 6.33. Gersdorffite has three crystallisation forms: Gersdorffite-P213 (NiAsS), Gersdorffite-Pa3 (Ni(As,S)2) and Gersdorffite-Pca21 (NiAsS). Gersdorffite occurs as a hydrothermal vein mineral along with other nickel sulfides. Associated minerals include nickeline, nickel-skutterudite, cobaltite, ullmannite, maucherite, löllingite, platinum-group minerals, millerite, pyrite, marcasite, and chalcopyrite. Gersdorffite was first described in 1843 and named for Johann von Gersdorff (1781–1849), owner of the nickel mine at Schladming, Austria the type locality.

Gersdorffite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Gersdorffite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Gersdorffite Localities Map

See where Gersdorffite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.