Pyragyrite

Description

The blackish red mineral composed of the double sulfide of Silver and Antimony. Pyragyrite is often associated with silver deposits. It has been found in Peru, Russia, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and the United States (Colorado, Nevada, Idaho). Pyragyrite was also called red silver, ruby silver ore, and dark red silver ore prior to the 1800s.

Synonyms and Related Terms

silver antimony sulfide; red silver; ruby silver ore; dark red silver ore

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Hexagonal crystal system with good cleavage in one direction.
• Striated.
• Fracture = conchoidal or uneven.
• Luster = adamantine.
• Streak = purplish red

Composition	Ag3SbS3
Mohs Hardness	2.5
Density	5.8-5.9 g/ml

Resources and Citations

• Mineralogy Database: Pyrargyrite

• C.W.Chesterman, K.E.Lowe, Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, Alfred A. Knopf, New York, 1979

• Susan E. Schur, Conservation Terminology: A review of Past & Current Nomenclature of Materials, Technology and Conservation, Spring (p.34-39); Summer (p.35-38); Fall (p.25-36), 1985