Cassiterite Crystals on Barite – Yaogangxian Mine, Hunan, China

Discover the dazzling allure of these lustrous cassiterite crystals, sourced from the renowned Yaogangxian Mine in Chenzhou, Hunan, China. Perfect for mineral collectors, these exquisite crystals showcase an exceptional shine and clarity, adding a touch of elegance to any collection.

Cassiterite (SnO₂) crystallizes in the tetragonal system and is known for its distinctive metallic to adamantine luster. This specimen features sharp, well-defined crystals exhibiting a deep, rich brown to nearly black coloration with subtle reddish undertones, typical of samples from this locality. The crystals present a compact, prismatic form with excellent transparency along crystal edges, enhancing their visual appeal.

The Yaogangxian Mine is a world-famous locality recognized for producing high-quality cassiterite specimens alongside other minerals such as stannite and pyrite. Its long history of mining and mineral diversity makes it a key source for collectors seeking authentic Chinese mineral specimens. This piece’s combination of clarity, crystal form, and provenance contributes to its desirability and value within the mineral collecting community.

With a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, cassiterite is relatively durable; however, it is advisable to handle the specimen with care to avoid chipping the well-defined crystal edges. Displaying this specimen in a dust-free environment away from direct sunlight will help preserve its lustrous appearance over time.

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