Alluaivite is a rare member of the eudialyte group typically found in highly alkaline rock complexes. Collectors often identify it by its specific occurrence in the Lovozero Massif, where it forms distinct, transparent yellow-to-brown crystals within pegmatitic pockets.
Is this alluaivite?
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 alluaivite with a known reference. Alluaivite sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Alluaivite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Alluaivite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, reddish-brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals, lamellar to tabular aggregates.
Often confused with
Alluaivite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside alluaivite
Minerals reported to co-occur with alluaivite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₁₅Ca₆(Ti,Nb)₃Zr₃Si₂₅O₇₃(O,OH,H₂O)₃Cl₂
- Mohs hardness
- 5-6
- Density
- 2.95 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- Crystal habit
- Rhombohedral Crystals, Lamellar to Tabular Aggregates
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites and Nepheline Syenites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per thumbnail or small specimen
Where rockhounds find alluaivite
Classic worldwide localities
- Alluaiv Mountain, Lovozero Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites and nepheline syenites country — that is the host setting where alluaivite typically forms. If you start seeing nepheline, aegirine, microcline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a rhombohedral crystals, lamellar to tabular aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify alluaivite?+
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Find alluaivite on the map
RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.
