Kimzeyite is a rare zirconium-rich member of the garnet group typically found in carbonatite complexes. It is most recognized for its dark, often opaque dodecahedral crystals which can be difficult to distinguish from schorlomite without chemical analysis.
Is this kimzeyite?
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 kimzeyite with a known reference. Kimzeyite sits at Mohs 7, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Kimzeyite leaves a light brown streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Kimzeyite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: dark brown, black, reddish brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: cubic. Typical habit: dodecahedral crystals.
Often confused with
Kimzeyite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Kimzeyite leaves light brown, Andradite leaves white; luster reads vitreous on Kimzeyite and adamantine to resinous to dull on Andradite.
How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Kimzeyite leaves light brown, Schorlomite leaves white.
Often found alongside kimzeyite
Minerals reported to co-occur with kimzeyite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Ca₃(Zr,Ti)₂(Si,Al,Fe³⁺)₃O₁₂
- Mohs hardness
- 7
- Density
- 4.15-4.25 g/cm³
- Streak
- Light Brown
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- Crystal habit
- Dodecahedral Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Carbonatite
Where rockhounds find kimzeyite
Classic worldwide localities
- Magnet Cove, Arkansas, USA
Field-hunting tip
Look in carbonatite country, the host setting where kimzeyite typically forms. If you start seeing magnetite, monticellite, apatite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a dodecahedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify kimzeyite?+
Where is kimzeyite found?+
What rocks look like kimzeyite?+
What minerals are found with kimzeyite?+
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What is kimzeyite used for?+
Find kimzeyite on the map
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