Silvery metallic crystal of the very rare Bi-telluride-selenide mineral baksanite in matrix from the TL (Tyrnyauz Deposit, Baksan Valley, Kabardino-Balkaria, Russian Federation). Analitically confirmed. Ex. Erich Laskowski collection (USA). — Photo: David Hospital · CC BY 4.0
Baksanite
Baksanite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the sulfide class, with the chemical formula Bi₆Te₂S₃.
It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system (space group P-3m1). It is a member of the Tetradymite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 1.5–2; specific gravity 8.1; Black streak; Metallic luster.
IMA symbol Bks, IMA status: approved, named in 1992.
Found in altered magnetite–andradite skarn.
It is found associated with Gold, bismuthinite, ingodite, joséite, andradite, calcite, chlorite, stilpnomelane.
The name refers to the Baksan River Valley, in which the mineral occurs.