Stannite facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Stannite
General
Category	Sulfide mineral
Formula (repeating unit)	Cu2FeSnS4
Strunz classification	2.CB.15a
Crystal symmetry	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
Crystal system	Tetragonal
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

Stannite is a mineral that contains copper, iron, tin, and sulfur. It belongs to a group of minerals called sulfides.

What is Stannite Made Of?

Stannite has a special chemical formula: Cu₂FeSnS₄. This means it is made of copper (Cu), iron (Fe), tin (Sn), and sulfur (S). Sometimes, you can also find zinc mixed with the iron. Very tiny amounts of germanium might be there too.

Why is Stannite Important?

Stannite is important because it is a source of tin. About 28% of stannite is tin. It also has about 13% iron, 30% copper, and 30% sulfur. Tin is a useful metal for many things, like making cans and electronics.

Where is Stannite Found?

You can find stannite deep underground. It forms in cracks in rocks where hot, mineral-rich water has flowed. These places are called hydrothermal vein deposits. Stannite is often found with other minerals. Some of these include chalcopyrite, sphalerite, tetrahedrite, arsenopyrite, pyrite, cassiterite, and wolframite.

The History of Stannite

Stannite is sometimes called bell metal ore. This is because tin is a key ingredient in making bell metal. People believe that finding a lot of tin in Cornwall, England, helped more bells get made. The name 'Stannite' comes from the Latin word stannum, which means tin. Scientists first described this mineral in 1797. They found it in a place called Wheal Rock in St. Agnes, Cornwall, England.

See also

• Kesterite