Bornemanite is a rare sodium-titanium-niobium silicate phosphate found almost exclusively in the alkaline massifs of the Kola Peninsula. It typically occurs as distinct yellow-brown platy crystals or as intergrowths within complex pegmatite zones. Collectors prize it as a rare member of the lamprophyllite group, often requiring mineral analysis for definitive identification due to its similarity to other complex silicates.
Is this bornemanite?
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 bornemanite with a known reference. Bornemanite sits at Mohs 3-4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Bornemanite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Bornemanite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, yellowish-brown, golden-yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: platy crystals, lath-like aggregates.
Often confused with
Bornemanite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside bornemanite
Minerals reported to co-occur with bornemanite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₆Ti₂NbSi₄O₁₇(OH,F)·Na₃PO₄
- Mohs hardness
- 3-4
- Density
- 3.37 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Platy Crystals, Lath-like Aggregates
- Cleavage
- Perfect
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Agpaitic Pegmatites in Alkalic Massifs
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen depending on size and quality
Where rockhounds find bornemanite
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
- Lovozero Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in agpaitic pegmatites in alkalic massifs country, the host setting where bornemanite typically forms. If you start seeing nepheline, aegirine, kalsilite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals, lath-like aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find bornemanite on the map
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