CYLINDRITE (miniature)

Cylindrite is a sulfosalt mineral composed of tin, lead, antimony, and iron, represented by the formula Pb3Sn4FeSb2S14. It typically crystallizes in a triclinic pinacoidal structure, often appearing as tubular or cylindrical formations that are essentially rolled sheets. The mineral exhibits a metallic hue ranging from black to lead grey, with a Mohs hardness between 2 and 3 and a specific gravity of 5.4. Discovered in 1893 at the Santa Cruz mine in the Oruro Department of Bolivia, its name reflects the distinctive cylindrical shape of its crystals, which is a rare characteristic among minerals.