Iodargyrite

Iodargyrite is a rare mineral composed of silver iodide, with the chemical formula AgI. It belongs to the cubic crystal system, though it is often found in massive or granular forms rather than well-defined crystals. The color of iodargyrite ranges from colorless to white, pale yellow, or gray. It has a specific gravity of around 5.55 and a Mohs hardness of 1.5 to 2, making it a relatively soft mineral.

Iodargyrite is typically found in the oxidized zones of silver-bearing ore deposits. It forms under relatively low-temperature conditions and often occurs alongside other silver halide minerals like bromargyrite and chlorargyrite. It can also be associated with native silver, quartz, and various carbonates. Notable occurrences include mines in Mexico, Chile, Germany, and the United States.

Due to its rarity and softness, iodargyrite has little economic importance as a direct source of silver. However, it is of interest to mineral collectors and geologists studying the processes of mineral formation in arid environments. The mineral's name is derived from the Greek word "iodes" meaning violet-colored, referring to a potential, though uncommon, purplish hue, and "argyros" meaning silver.