Hydrokenomicrolite is a rare member of the pyrochlore supergroup characterized by high water content and a vacant A-site in its crystal structure. Collectors typically seek out its distinct octahedral crystals found within complex granitic pegmatites.
Is this hydrokenomicrolite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch hydrokenomicrolite with a known reference. Hydrokenomicrolite sits at Mohs 5-5.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydrokenomicrolite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Hydrokenomicrolite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, colorless, gray.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals.
Often found alongside hydrokenomicrolite
Minerals reported to co-occur with hydrokenomicrolite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- □₂Ta₂O₆(H₂O)
- Mohs hardness
- 5-5.5
- Density
- 4.5-5.0 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- Crystal habit
- Octahedral Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Granite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find hydrokenomicrolite
Classic worldwide localities
- Brazil
- Sweden
- Russia
- Italy
Field-hunting tip
Look in granite pegmatites country — that is the host setting where hydrokenomicrolite typically forms. If you start seeing albite, lepidolite, quartz in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a octahedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find hydrokenomicrolite on the map
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