RocksdayJamesonite vs Stibnite
The quickest way to tell Jamesonite from Stibnite: Jamesonite leaves a gray streak; Stibnite leaves lead gray.
A lead-iron-antimony sulfide that forms soft, hair-like metallic fibers — one of the minerals called feather ore.
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky, CC BY-SA 3.0
Antimony sulfide forming dramatic sword-like, striated metallic crystals.
Photo: H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0
Quick tests
- Streak (rub on unglazed porcelain): Jamesonite leaves a gray streak; Stibnite leaves lead gray.
Key differences
- Stibnite forms stiff, striated blades, not a soft felt of hairs.
- Jamesonite is a felt of fine hairs, not stiff blades.
Side by side
| Property | Jamesonite | Stibnite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mineral | Mineral |
| Mohs hardness | 2–3 | 2 |
| Luster | Metallic | Metallic |
| Streak | Gray | Lead gray |
| Colors | Gray, Black | Gray, Silver |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic | Orthorhombic |
| Specific gravity | 5.5–5.8 | 4.6 |
| Formula | Pb₄FeSb₆S₁₄ | Sb₂S₃ |
| Found in | Cornwall, England; Baia Mare, Romania | Xikuangshan, Hunan, China; Ichinokawa mine, Japan |
Properties that are the same for both are grayed out.
How to identify jamesonite
- Felted gray hairs or flexible needles.
- Metallic, and a fingernail can scratch it.
- Heavy. Dark gray streak.
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Full Jamesonite guide →How to identify stibnite
- Long, bladed, lead-gray crystals with lengthwise striations.
- Crystals may bend or twist.
- Very soft — a fingernail almost scratches it.
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Full Stibnite guide →More comparisons
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between jamesonite and stibnite?
Jamesonite is a mineral (Pb₄FeSb₆S₁₄) with a Mohs hardness of 2–3 and a metallic luster, usually gray or black. Stibnite is a mineral (Sb₂S₃) with a Mohs hardness of 2 and a metallic luster, usually gray or silvery.
How can you tell jamesonite from stibnite?
Jamesonite leaves a gray streak; Stibnite leaves lead gray. Stibnite forms stiff, striated blades, not a soft felt of hairs. Jamesonite is a felt of fine hairs, not stiff blades.
Could you tell them apart from a blurry close-up?
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