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.
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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
- ⚠️Harm Reason: Stannite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Tin, Copper.
- ⚠️How to prevent the risks of Stannite?
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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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