Cassiterite

Introduction: Cassiterite occurs in many tin-bearing granites often in pegmatites. This mineral is named after the Greek word for tin, which is 'kassiteros'. Grouping is either botryoidal or reniform. Tin is used for assisting the properties of other materials in solder, brass and bronze alloys and in the manufacture of tinfoil and a variety of pesticides.

Distribution: There are four tin belts located in central Namibia, running north to east from Brandberg West to Goantagab and Uis to Cape Cross and south to west from Kohero to Nainais and Omaruru to Erongo and on to Sandamap.

Composition: Oxide

Crystal system: Tetragonal

Lustre: Adamantine, vitreous

Streak: Grey-brown, white

Hardness: 6-7