Cylindrite is a sulfosalt mineral containing tin, lead, antimony and iron with formula: Pb3Sn4FeSb2S14. It forms triclinic pinacoidal crystals which often occur as tubes or cylinders which are in fact rolled sheets. It has a black to lead grey metallic colour with a Mohs hardness of 2 to 3 and a specific gravity of 5.4.
Cylindrite | |
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General | |
Category | Sulfosalt minerals |
Formula (repeating unit) | Pb3Sn4FeSb2S14 |
IMA symbol | Cy[1] |
Strunz classification | 2.HF.25a |
Dana classification | 03.01.04.01 |
Crystal system | Triclinic |
Identification | |
Formula mass | 1,844.71 g/mol |
Colour | Lead grey, greyish black |
Crystal habit | Cylindrical |
Cleavage | Perfect on {100} |
Tenacity | Malleable |
Mohs scale hardness | 2+1⁄2 |
Lustre | Metallic |
Streak | Black |
Diaphaneity | Opaque |
Specific gravity | 5.4 – 5.42 |
References | [2][3][4] |
It was first discovered in the Santa Cruz mine, Oruro Department, Bolivia in 1893. The name arises from its curious cylindrical crystal which it forms almost uniquely among minerals.