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Author: Admin | 2025-04-27
Home » Minerals » CassiteriteMineral Properties and UsesArticle by: , PhD, RPGCassiterite sand from Plateau State, Nigeria, Africa. Placer-mined tin is often called "stream tin." These are silt- to sand-size particles of cassiterite.What is Cassiterite?Cassiterite is a tin oxide mineral with a chemical composition of SnO2. It is the most important source of tin, and most of the world’s supply of tin is obtained by mining cassiterite. Small amounts of primary cassiterite are found in igneous and metamorphic rocks throughout the world. It is also a residual mineral found in soils and sediments. Cassiterite is more resistant to weathering than many other minerals, and that causes it to be concentrated in stream and shoreline sediments. Although cassiterite is the most important ore of tin, it has only been found in minable concentrations in a few locations. Physical Properties of Cassiterite Chemical Classification Oxide Color Reddish brown, to brown to black Streak A trace of white to no streak at all. It is often harder than the streak plate. Luster Adamantine, splendent to submetallic Diaphaneity Opaque to translucent Cleavage Imperfect Mohs Hardness 6 to 7 Specific Gravity 6.8 to 7.1 Diagnostic Properties High specific gravity, bright metallic to adamantine luster, light streak, fibrous appearance Chemical Composition Tin oxide, SnO2 Crystal System Tetragonal Uses An ore of tin, a collector’s gem, mineral specimens Physical Properties of CassiteriteCassiterite has several properties that aid in its identification and enable it to be found in minable quantities. Its adamantine luster, high hardness, light streak, and high specific gravity are helpful in its identification. Its high specific gravity, resistance to weathering and physical durability enable it to survive stream transport and concentrate in placer deposits.Cassiterite from near Keystone, South Dakota. Specimen is approximately 4 inches (10 centimeters) across. Geologic Occurrence of CassiteritePrimary deposits of cassiterite worth
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