Kumdykolite is a rare orthorhombic polymorph of sodium aluminosilicate, specifically a high-pressure phase of albite. It is primarily found within microdiamond-bearing metamorphic rocks of the Kokchetav Massif and is prized by advanced mineral collectors for its unique structural formation.
Is this kumdykolite?
2-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 kumdykolite with a known reference. Kumdykolite sits at Mohs 6, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: pseudocubic crystals.
Often confused with
Kumdykolite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside kumdykolite
Minerals reported to co-occur with kumdykolite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- NaAlSi₃O₈
- Mohs hardness
- 6
- Density
- 2.56 g/cm³
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Pseudocubic crystals
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- As inclusions in omphacite in eclogite (Kazakhstan)
Where rockhounds find kumdykolite
Classic worldwide localities
- Kumdy Kol, Kokchetav, Northern Kazakhstan (type locality)
Field-hunting tip
Where it forms: As inclusions in omphacite in eclogite (Kazakhstan). If you start seeing diopside, calcic amphibole, dolomite in float, you are in the right ground. Typical habit: pseudocubic crystals. Train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify kumdykolite?+
Where is kumdykolite found?+
What rocks look like kumdykolite?+
What minerals are found with kumdykolite?+
What kind of rock does kumdykolite form in?+
What is kumdykolite used for?+
Find kumdykolite on the map
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