Hydroxykenoelsmoreite is a rare lead tungsten iron hydroxide. It was approved as a distinct mineral species in 2016, from material found in Burundi.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrarePyrochlore Supergroup family

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite is a rare lead tungsten iron hydroxide. It was approved as a distinct mineral species in 2016, from material found in Burundi.

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

No image

Is this hydroxykenoelsmoreite?

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 hydroxykenoelsmoreite with a known reference. Hydroxykenoelsmoreite 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. Hydroxykenoelsmoreite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxykenoelsmoreite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, colorless.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals.

Often found alongside hydroxykenoelsmoreite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: (☐,Pb)₂(W,Fe³⁺,Al)₂(O,OH)₆(OH)
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 4.5-5.2 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Colorless
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Octahedral Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Granitic Pegmatites

Where rockhounds find hydroxykenoelsmoreite

Classic worldwide localities

Sweden
Czech Republic
Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in granitic pegmatites country, the host setting where hydroxykenoelsmoreite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, feldspar, mica 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

How do you identify hydroxykenoelsmoreite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-5.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, colorless.

Where is hydroxykenoelsmoreite found?+

Notable localities include Sweden; Czech Republic; Russia.

Is hydroxykenoelsmoreite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead, 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 hydroxykenoelsmoreite?+

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Feldspar, Mica. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does hydroxykenoelsmoreite form in?+

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite typically forms in granitic pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is hydroxykenoelsmoreite used for?+

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite is used in collector.

Find hydroxykenoelsmoreite on the map

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