Belogubite is a rare copper-zinc sulfate mineral typically found as thin, vibrant blue crusts or small platy crystals. It is primarily identified by its occurrence in the oxidized portions of sulfide-rich ore deposits, often associated with other rare hydrated sulfates. Collectors typically find it in small micro-mounts, given its limited occurrence in the Gaiskoye deposit.
Is this belogubite?
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 belogubite with a known reference. Belogubite sits at Mohs 2 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Belogubite leaves a light blue streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Belogubite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: bright blue.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: platy crystals, crusts.
Often confused with
Belogubite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside belogubite
Minerals reported to co-occur with belogubite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- CuZn(SO₄)₂·10H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 2
- Density
- 2.56 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- Light Blue
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- Crystal habit
- Platy Crystals, Crusts
- Cleavage
- Perfect On {0001}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Oxidized Zones of Copper-zinc Sulfide Deposits
- Typical price
- $50-300 for specimens
Where rockhounds find belogubite
Classic worldwide localities
- Gaiskoye deposit, Ural Mountains, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in oxidized zones of copper-zinc sulfide deposits country — that is the host setting where belogubite typically forms. If you start seeing gunningite, bianchite, sphalerite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals, crusts habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find belogubite on the map
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