Stannite
(repeating unit)Cu2FeSnS4 IMA symbol Stn[1] Strunz classification 2.CB.15a Crystal system Tetragonal Crystal class Scalenohedral (42m)
H-M symbol: (4 2m) Space group I42m Unit cell a = 5.4432, c = 10.7299 [Å]; Z = 2 Identification Color Steel-gray to iron-black, may tarnish blue Crystal habit Rarely as pseudo-octahedral crystals also massive, granular, and disseminated Twinning Penetration twins on {102} Cleavage Indistinct on {110} and {001} Fracture Uneven Mohs scale hardness 4 Luster Metallic Streak Black Diaphaneity Opaque Specific gravity 4.3 – 4.5 References [2][3][4]
H-M symbol: (4 2m)
Stannite is a mineral, a sulfide of copper, iron, and tin, in the category of thiostannates.
Background
The chemical formula is Cu2FeSnS4. Zinc commonly occurs with the iron and trace germanium may be present.[4] Stannite is used as an ore of tin, consisting of approximately 28% tin, 13% iron, 30% copper, 30% sulfur by mass. It is found in tin-bearing, hydrothermal vein deposits occurring with chalcopyrite, sphalerite, tetrahedrite, arsenopyrite, pyrite, cassiterite, and wolframite.[2]
It is also known as bell metal ore as tin is an important constituent of bell-metal. It is thought the exploitation of tin deposits in Cornwall led to an expansion in bell founding.
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.[4]
See also
References
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