Ferrohögbomite-2N2S is a rare complex oxide mineral belonging to the högbomite group, typically found in high-grade metamorphic terrains. It usually occurs as small, dark, tabular crystals often embedded within spinel-rich matrices. Identification typically requires advanced chemical analysis such as electron microprobe to differentiate it from other members of the högbomite supergroup.
Is this ferrohögbomite-2n2s?
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 ferrohögbomite-2n2s with a known reference. Ferrohögbomite-2N2S sits at Mohs 6-7, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Streak: brown.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Luster: adamantine.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: chestnut brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: euhedral crystals, hexagonal.
Often confused with
Ferrohögbomite-2N2S vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Ferrohögbomite-2N2S leaves brown, Spinel leaves white; luster reads adamantine on Ferrohögbomite-2N2S and vitreous, splendent to dull on Spinel.
How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Ferrohögbomite-2N2S leaves brown, Magnetite leaves black; luster reads adamantine on Ferrohögbomite-2N2S and metallic to submetallic, may be dull on Magnetite.
How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Ferrohögbomite-2N2S leaves brown, Hematite leaves cherry-red or reddish brown; luster reads adamantine on Ferrohögbomite-2N2S and metallic or submetallic to dull on Hematite.
Often found alongside ferrohögbomite-2n2s
Minerals reported to co-occur with ferrohögbomite-2n2s. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (Fe,Mg,Zn,Al)₃(Al,Ti,Fe)₈O₁₅(OH)
- Mohs hardness
- 6-7
- Colors
- Chestnut brown
- Streak
- Brown
- Luster
- Adamantine
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Hexagonal
- Crystal habit
- Euhedral crystals, hexagonal
- Cleavage
- Distinct on {001}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Metamorphic environments (T 500 to 730 deg C) ultrahigh-temperature granulite-facies. (högbomite group; structure)
Where rockhounds find ferrohögbomite-2n2s
Classic worldwide localities
- Ain Taiba, Grand Erg Oriental, Algerian Sahara (type locality)
Field-hunting tip
Where it forms: Metamorphic environments (T 500 to 730 deg C) ultrahigh-temperature granulite-facies. (högbomite group; structure). If you start seeing spinel, magnetite, corundum in float, you are in the right ground. Typical habit: euhedral crystals, hexagonal. Train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify ferrohögbomite-2n2s?+
Where is ferrohögbomite-2n2s found?+
What rocks look like ferrohögbomite-2n2s?+
What minerals are found with ferrohögbomite-2n2s?+
What kind of rock does ferrohögbomite-2n2s form in?+
What is ferrohögbomite-2n2s used for?+
Find ferrohögbomite-2n2s on the map
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