Hydrokenopyrochlore is a rare antimony sodium niobium oxide that forms tan to beige porous, subhedral octahedral crystals. It occurs in a Li-Cs-Ta-type pegmatite intruded into dolomitic marble. It was first described from the Antandrokomby pegmatite, Vakinankaratra region, Antananarivo Province, Madagascar.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Resinous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrarePyrochlore Group family

Hydrokenopyrochlore

Hardness: 5-5.5
Luster: Resinous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this hydrokenopyrochlore?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch hydrokenopyrochlore with a known reference. Hydrokenopyrochlore sits at Mohs 5-5.5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydrokenopyrochlore leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hydrokenopyrochlore typically shows a resinous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: tan, beige.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: porous, subhedral octahedral crystals.

Often found alongside hydrokenopyrochlore

Minerals reported to co-occur with hydrokenopyrochlore. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: (☐,Sb³⁺,Na)₂Nb₂O₆·H₂O
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 5.984 g/cm³
Colors: Tan Beige
Streak: White
Luster: Resinous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Porous, Subhedral Octahedral Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector, Scientific Research
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites and Nepheline Syenites

Where rockhounds find hydrokenopyrochlore

Classic worldwide localities

Antandrokomby pegmatite, Antananarivo Province, Madagascar

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites and nepheline syenites country, the host setting where hydrokenopyrochlore typically forms. If you start seeing sodalite, aegirine, arfvedsonite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a porous, subhedral octahedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify hydrokenopyrochlore?+

Mohs hardness is 5-5.5. It typically shows a resinous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include tan, beige.

Where is hydrokenopyrochlore found?+

Notable localities include Antandrokomby pegmatite, Antananarivo Province, Madagascar.

Is hydrokenopyrochlore safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Contains antimony, which is toxic if ingested or inhaled as dust. Wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid creating dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with hydrokenopyrochlore?+

Hydrokenopyrochlore commonly co-occurs with Sodalite, Aegirine, Arfvedsonite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does hydrokenopyrochlore form in?+

Hydrokenopyrochlore typically forms in alkaline pegmatites and nepheline syenites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is hydrokenopyrochlore used for?+

Hydrokenopyrochlore is used in collector, scientific research.

Find hydrokenopyrochlore on the map

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