How do I identify Playfairite?

Playfairite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Lead gray to black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Playfairite?

Playfairite typically appears in Lead gray to black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Playfairite?

Playfairite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

How to Identify Playfairite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Playfairite?

Playfairite is a rare sulfosalt mineral with chemical formula Pb16Sb18S43 in the monoclinic crystal system, named after the Scottish scientist and mathematician John Playfair. It was discovered in 1966 by the Canadian mineralogist John Leslie Jambor. Lead gray to black in color, its luster is metallic. Playfairite shows strong reflection pleochroism from white to brownish gray. Playfairite has a hardness of 3.5 to 4 on Mohs scale and a specific gravity of approximately 5.72. The type locality is Taylor Pit (Concession XIV; Lot 13), Huntingdon Township, Hastings County in Ontario, Canada. Small deposits have also been found in Les Cougnasses Mine, Orpierre in the Haut-Alpes in France, Khaidarkan Sb-Hg deposit (Chaidarkan), Fergana Valley, Alai Range, Osh Oblast, Kyrgyzstan and Reese River District, Lander County, Nevada, USA.

Playfairite Market Value Calculator

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

Playfairite Localities Map

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