Carlgieseckeite-(Nd) is an extremely rare carbonate mineral found primarily in the agpaitic rocks of the Ilímaussaq complex. It typically appears as small, reddish-brown platy crystals associated with complex alkaline pegmatites. Collectors prize it for its unique chemical composition featuring neodymium as the dominant rare earth element.
Is this carlgieseckeite-(nd)?
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 carlgieseckeite-(nd) with a known reference. Carlgieseckeite-(Nd) sits at Mohs 4-5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Carlgieseckeite-(Nd) leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Carlgieseckeite-(Nd) typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: reddish-brown, brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: triclinic. Typical habit: platy crystals.
Often found alongside carlgieseckeite-(nd)
Minerals reported to co-occur with carlgieseckeite-(nd). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na(Nd,Ce)₄(CO₃)₃F(OH)₂
- Mohs hardness
- 4-5
- Density
- 4.57 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Triclinic
- Crystal habit
- Platy Crystals
- Cleavage
- Good
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Nepheline Syenite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find carlgieseckeite-(nd)
Classic worldwide localities
- Ilímaussaq complex, Greenland
Field-hunting tip
Look in nepheline syenite pegmatites country — that is the host setting where carlgieseckeite-(nd) typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, arfvedsonite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.



