Where is Stibnite with Quartz found?
Stibnite (Sb2S3) with Quartz (SiO2)
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Open the appStibnite with Quartz occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Stibnite with Quartz
Ichinokawa Mine, Shikoku, Japan
Historically famous for producing some of the world's finest and largest stibnite crystals, often in a quartz matrix.
Xikuangshan Mine, Hunan Province, China
The largest antimony deposit in the world, producing significant quantities of stibnite, often with quartz.
Baia Sprie (Felsöbánya), Maramureș County, Romania
Known for excellent stibnite specimens, frequently associated with quartz and other sulfides.
Pernek, Malacky District, Bratislava Region, Slovakia
Another classic European locality for stibnite, often found with quartz.
Murchison Range, Limpopo Province, South Africa
A major antimony-gold deposit where stibnite occurs, often with quartz.
Collecting tips
- Look for Hydrothermal Veins. Stibnite with Quartz is typically found in hydrothermal vein deposits. Search for areas with evidence of past fluid flow, such as quartz veins, altered host rocks, and fault zones.
- Identify Associated Minerals. Stibnite often co-occurs with other sulfide minerals (e.g., pyrite, arsenopyrite, cinnabar), gold, and various gangue minerals like calcite and barite. The presence of these minerals can indicate a favorable environment.
- Observe Crystal Habit. Look for the distinctive elongated, acicular, or bladed crystals of stibnite, often radiating from a central point or forming parallel bundles within a quartz matrix. The metallic luster of stibnite is also a key indicator.
- Exercise Caution. Stibnite contains antimony, which is toxic. Always handle specimens with gloves and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Avoid inhaling dust. Do not ingest. Store specimens in a secure, well-ventilated area, preferably in sealed containers to prevent dust dispersal.
- Check for Softness and Cleavage. Stibnite is relatively soft (Mohs 2-2.5) and has perfect cleavage, meaning it can be easily scratched and will break into thin, flexible blades. Quartz, in contrast, is much harder (Mohs 7) and lacks cleavage.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Stibnite: Lead-gray to steel-gray; Quartz: Colorless to white/gray
- Luster:
- Stibnite: Metallic; Quartz: Vitreous
- Streak:
- Stibnite: Grayish-black; Quartz: White
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