Melonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Melonite?
Melonite is a telluride of nickel; it is a metallic mineral. Its chemical formula is NiTe2. It is opaque and white to reddish-white in color, oxidizing in air to a brown tarnish. It was first described from the Melones and Stanislaus mine in Calaveras County, California in 1866, by Frederick Augustus Genth. Melonite occurs as trigonal crystals, which cleave in a (0001) direction. It has a specific gravity of 7.72 and a hardness of 1–1.5 (very soft).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Melonite 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.
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1 - 1.5
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- NiTe2
- Elements
- Ni, Te
Identify Melonite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Melonite FAQs
How do I identify Melonite?
Melonite can be identified by its hardness of 1 - 1.5 on the Mohs scale. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
How hard is Melonite?
Melonite has a hardness of 1 - 1.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
