Stannite
A variety of Stannite Group
What is Stannite?
Stannite is a sulfide mineral associated with Quartz and it's known to be an important source of tin. Its name comes from the Latin word for tin - "stannum". The mineral is found in hydrothermal deposits. It is present worldwide, but the most famous locality is certainly Cornwall in England, where it was first discovered in 1979.
Etymology & Origins
The name comes from the Latin for tin: stannum. It was first described in 1797 for an occurrence in Wheal Rock, St. Agnes, Cornwall, England.
Uses & Applications
Stannite is mined as an ore of tin. Interestingly, stannite is commonly known as "bell metal ore" since in the 19th century it was an important source of Cornish tin used specifically for manufacturing bells.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Stannite 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.
Stannite Localities Map
See where Stannite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Stannite
Zinc commonly occurs with the iron and trace germanium may be present. Stannite is used as an ore of tin, consisting of approximately 28% tin, 13% iron, 30% copper, 30% sulfur by mass.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Stannite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Tin, Copper.
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle stannite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing stannite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store stannite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Grey, black with olive-green tint, tarnishes pale blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4
- Density
- 4.49 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
- Luster
- Metallic
- Crystal System
- Tetragonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu2FeSnS4
- Elements
- Cu, Fe, S, Sn
Also Known As
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Stannite FAQs
How do I identify Stannite?
Stannite can be identified by its hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, Grey color, Metallic luster, Tetragonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Stannite?
Stannite typically appears in Grey, black with olive-green tint, tarnishes pale blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Stannite?
Stannite has a hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the composition of stannite of Stannite?
Zinc commonly occurs with the iron and trace germanium may be present. Stannite is used as an ore of tin, consisting of approximately 28% tin, 13% iron, 30% copper, 30% sulfur by mass.