Clinokurchatovite is a rare borate mineral found predominantly in magnesian skarn deposits. It is chemically similar to Kurchatovite but structurally distinct due to its monoclinic-like tendencies in complex borate groupings. Collectors typically find it as inconspicuous granular masses associated with other borates and magnetite.
Is this clinokurchatovite?
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 clinokurchatovite with a known reference. Clinokurchatovite 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. Clinokurchatovite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Clinokurchatovite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: brown, gray, yellowish-brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: granular aggregates, massive.
Often confused with
Clinokurchatovite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside clinokurchatovite
Minerals reported to co-occur with clinokurchatovite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- CaMgB₂O₅
- Mohs hardness
- 4-5
- Density
- 3.37 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Granular Aggregates, Massive
- Cleavage
- Distinct
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Skarn Deposits
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find clinokurchatovite
Classic worldwide localities
- Tayozhnoye deposit, Russia
- Solongo deposit, Russia
- Suan mine, North Korea
Field-hunting tip
Look in skarn deposits country — that is the host setting where clinokurchatovite typically forms. If you start seeing magnetite, ludwigite, calcite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a granular aggregates, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify clinokurchatovite?+
Where is clinokurchatovite found?+
How much is clinokurchatovite worth?+
What rocks look like clinokurchatovite?+
What minerals are found with clinokurchatovite?+
What kind of rock does clinokurchatovite form in?+
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Find clinokurchatovite on the map
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