Andreyivanovite is an extremely rare iron-chromium phosphide discovered in the Kaidun meteorite. It typically occurs as microscopic grains within meteorite matrices and is of significant interest primarily to meteorite researchers and specialized mineral collectors.
Is this andreyivanovite?
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 andreyivanovite with a known reference. Andreyivanovite 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. Andreyivanovite leaves a grey streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Andreyivanovite typically shows a metallic luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, gray.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: irregular grains.
Often confused with
Andreyivanovite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside andreyivanovite
Minerals reported to co-occur with andreyivanovite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- FeCrP
- Mohs hardness
- 5-6
- Density
- 6.83 g/cm³
- Streak
- Grey
- Luster
- Metallic
- Transparency
- Opaque
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Irregular Grains
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Meteorites
- Typical price
- n/a
Where rockhounds find andreyivanovite
Classic worldwide localities
- Kaidun meteorite
Field-hunting tip
Look in meteorites country — that is the host setting where andreyivanovite typically forms. If you start seeing kamacite, taenite, schreibersite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a irregular grains habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify andreyivanovite?+
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What rocks look like andreyivanovite?+
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Find andreyivanovite on the map
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