Algodonite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Comments

Algodonite and domeykite are both copper arsenides. However, algodonite forms in the hexagonal crystal system while domeykite forms in the isometric system. Both can occur mixed together as well as with other minerals.

Mohawkite — a mixture of algodonite, domeykite, copper, silver, and other minerals — also yields very striking cabochons.

Identifying Characteristics

With a specific gravity (SG) of 8.38, algodonite is one of the densest gemstones used as jewelry. (Domeykites range from 7.92 to 8.10). This property usually easily distinguishes it from gems of similar appearance. However, a few gem materials have SG ranges and colors that approximate algodonite's.

Bismutotantalite and stolzite are very rarely encountered in cut forms. They also lack algodonite's metallic luster. Natural cinnabar is rarely cut and usually, but not always, has a bright red color. (Be aware that some so-called "cinnabar" jewelry may just be red lacquer-coated wood, which is much lighter than actual cinnabar as well as algodonite).

Niccolite (nickel arsenide) comes close to algodonite in colors and luster and also makes beautiful cabochons. However, it has a somewhat lower SG (7.78).

Synthetics

Scientists have synthesized algodonites and domeykites in crystal form for research purposes. However, there's no known jewelry use for this lab-created material.

Enhancements

Algodonites tarnish rather quickly. Their surfaces turn a drab brown and lose their metallic luster. To prevent this, they must be sprayed with lacquer.

Sources

As fine crystals, algodonites occur in Painsdale, Michigan. As masses, they occur in Chile at Los Algodones Mine, Coquimbo and Cerro de Los Aeguas, Rancagua.

Domeykite occurs in the following locations:

• Mohawk Mine, Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan.
• Lake Superior district, Ontario, Canada.
• Chile; Germany; Guererro, Mexico; Sweden; Cornwall, England, United Kingdom.

Related minerals are found at Beloves, Czech Republic and Mesanki, Iran.

Mohawkite occurs only in the Mohawk Mine, Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan.

Stone Sizes

Lapidaries could cut these copper arsenide materials into cabochons of almost any size, depending on the availability of large masses of rough with metallic luster.

Care

Algodonites, domeykites, and mohawkites are heat sensitive. Lapidaries should take care when cutting these materials.

Of course, copper arsenides contain copper and arsenic, and both pose health risks. Therefore, gem cutters should take precautions when working with these materials. Consult our lapidary safety guide and tips for handling toxic gem materials for more information.

Wearing finished algodonites and other copper arsenides as jewelry should pose no health risks. Since these materials are somewhat soft (hardness 3-4), pendants and earrings make good jewelry options. Rings would require protective settings.

For cleaning recommendations, consult our gemstone jewelry care guide.

Joel E. Arem, Ph.D., FGA

Dr. Joel E. Arem has more than 60 years of experience in the world of gems and minerals. After obtaining his Ph.D. in Mineralogy from Harvard University, he has published numerous books that are still among the most widely used references and guidebooks on crystals, gems and minerals in the world.

Co-founder and President of numerous organizations, Dr. Arem has enjoyed a lifelong career in mineralogy and gemology. He has been a Smithsonian scientist and Curator, a consultant to many well-known companies and institutions, and a prolific author and speaker. Although his main activities have been as a gem cutter and dealer, his focus has always been education. joelarem.com

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