Laurite
A variety of Pyrite Group
What is Laurite?
Laurite is an opaque black, metallic ruthenium sulfide mineral with formula: RuS2. It crystallizes in the isometric system. It is in the pyrite structural group. Though rare, it occurs in many parts of the world. Laurite has a Mohs hardness of 7.5 and a specific gravity of 6.43. It can contain osmium, rhodium, iridium, and iron substituting for the ruthenium.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Laurite 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.
Laurite Localities Map
See where Laurite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Laurite
It was discovered in 1866 in Borneo, Malaysia and named for Laurie, the wife of Charles A. Joy, an American chemist. It occurs in ultramafic magmatic cumulate deposits and sedimentary placer deposits derived from them. It occurs associated with cooperite, braggite, sperrylite, other minerals of the platinum group elements and chromite. Synthetic RuS2 is a highly active catalyst for hydrodesulfurization.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7 - 7.5
- Density
- 6.39 g/cm³
- Streak
- Dark grey
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- RuS2
- Elements
- Ru, S
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Laurite FAQs
How do I identify Laurite?
Laurite can be identified by its hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Laurite?
Laurite typically appears in Black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Laurite?
Laurite has a hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
What is the formation of laurite of Laurite?
It was discovered in 1866 in Borneo, Malaysia and named for Laurie, the wife of Charles A. Joy, an American chemist. It occurs in ultramafic magmatic cumulate deposits and sedimentary placer deposits derived from them. It occurs associated with cooperite, braggite, sperrylite, other minerals of the platinum group elements and chromite. Synthetic RuS2 is a highly active catalyst for hydrodesulfurization.
