Chernovite-(Y) is a rare yttrium arsenate mineral that is the arsenic-dominant analog of xenotime-(Y). It is typically found in alkaline pegmatite environments, often occurring as small prismatic crystals that require careful identification through X-ray diffraction or chemical analysis.
Is this chernovite-(y)?
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 chernovite-(y) with a known reference. Chernovite-(Y) 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. Chernovite-(Y) leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Chernovite-(Y) typically shows a resinous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brownish-yellow, yellowish-brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.
Often confused with
Chernovite-(Y) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside chernovite-(y)
Minerals reported to co-occur with chernovite-(y). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- YAsO₄
- Mohs hardness
- 4-5
- Density
- 5.5-5.7 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Resinous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Tetragonal
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals
- Cleavage
- Distinct
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find chernovite-(y)
Classic worldwide localities
- Kola Peninsula, Russia
- Norway
- Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where chernovite-(y) typically forms. If you start seeing zircon, xenotime-(y), quartz in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify chernovite-(y)?+
Where is chernovite-(y) found?+
How much is chernovite-(y) worth?+
Is chernovite-(y) safe to handle?+
What rocks look like chernovite-(y)?+
What minerals are found with chernovite-(y)?+
What kind of rock does chernovite-(y) form in?+
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Find chernovite-(y) on the map
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