Chromo-alumino-povondraite is an extremely rare member of the tourmaline group characterized by its high chromium content. It typically forms as dark, opaque prismatic crystals found within metamorphic host rocks. Collectors seek this mineral primarily for its rarity and its distinct chemical position within the tourmaline supergroup.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareTourmaline Group family

Chromo-alumino-povondraite

Hardness: 7
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Opaque

Is this chromo-alumino-povondraite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch chromo-alumino-povondraite with a known reference. Chromo-alumino-povondraite sits at Mohs 7 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Chromo-alumino-povondraite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Chromo-alumino-povondraite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: dark brown, black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Chromo-alumino-povondraite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside chromo-alumino-povondraite

Minerals reported to co-occur with chromo-alumino-povondraite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Na(Cr,Al,Fe)₃(Al,Mg,Cr)₆(Si₆O₁₈)(BO₃)₃(OH)₃(O)
Mohs hardness: 7
Density: 3.35 g/cm³
Colors: Dark Brown Black
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity

Where rockhounds find chromo-alumino-povondraite

Classic worldwide localities

Kutná Hora, Czech Republic
Karelia, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where chromo-alumino-povondraite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, feldspar, mica 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 chromo-alumino-povondraite?+

Mohs hardness is 7. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include dark brown, black.

Where is chromo-alumino-povondraite found?+

Notable localities include Kutná Hora, Czech Republic; Karelia, Russia.

How much is chromo-alumino-povondraite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like chromo-alumino-povondraite?+

Chromo-alumino-povondraite is most often confused with Schorl, Dravite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with chromo-alumino-povondraite?+

Chromo-alumino-povondraite commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Feldspar, Mica. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does chromo-alumino-povondraite form in?+

Chromo-alumino-povondraite typically forms in metamorphic rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is chromo-alumino-povondraite used for?+

Chromo-alumino-povondraite is used in collector.

Find chromo-alumino-povondraite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.