Cylindrite

A classic miniature specimen of cylindrite from its historic type locality, the Santa Cruz Mine. The specimen displays the characteristic metallic, lead-grey cylindrical and rolled crystal aggregates for which the species is named, with a subtle sheen on fresh surfaces that reflects its complex layered structure. Even at miniature size, the distinctive morphology makes the identification unmistakable and highly representative of this unusual sulfosalt mineral.

The Santa Cruz Mine, Oruro Department, Bolivia, is the type locality for cylindrite and remains the world’s most important source of the species. Cylindrite is a rare lead–tin sulfosalt notable for its unique crystallographic behavior, forming curved and tubular aggregates rather than conventional flat crystals. Specimens from the Santa Cruz Mine are regarded as best-for-species, and type-locality examples are especially sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and classic appearance.