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, 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?+
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How much is clinokurchatovite worth?+
What rocks look like clinokurchatovite?+
What minerals are found with clinokurchatovite?+
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Find clinokurchatovite on the map
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