Gagarinite-(Ce) is a rare sodium-calcium-cerium fluoride mineral that occurs primarily in alkaline pegmatites. It is best identified by its association with unique mineral suites in agpaitic complexes and typically presents as small, pale-colored hexagonal prisms or irregular masses.

Hardness

4.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareGagarinite Group family

Gagarinite-(Ce)

Hardness: 4.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this gagarinite-(ce)?

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 gagarinite-(ce) with a known reference. Gagarinite-(Ce) sits at Mohs 4.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Gagarinite-(Ce) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Gagarinite-(Ce) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: pink, white, yellowish, colorless.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals, massive.

Often confused with

Gagarinite-(Ce) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside gagarinite-(ce)

Minerals reported to co-occur with gagarinite-(ce). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: NaCaCeF₆
Mohs hardness: 4.5
Density: 4.57 g/cm³
Colors: Pink White Yellowish Colorless
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals, Massive
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites, Agpaitic Nepheline Syenites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen depending on size and provenance

Where rockhounds find gagarinite-(ce)

Classic worldwide localities

Lovozero Massif, Russia
Mont Saint-Hilaire, Canada
Khibiny Massif, Russia
Burpala Massif, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites, agpaitic nepheline syenites country — that is the host setting where gagarinite-(ce) typically forms. If you start seeing eudialyte, microcline, nepheline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify gagarinite-(ce)?+

Mohs hardness is 4.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include pink, white, yellowish, colorless.

Where is gagarinite-(ce) found?+

Notable localities include Lovozero Massif, Russia; Mont Saint-Hilaire, Canada; Khibiny Massif, Russia; Burpala Massif, Russia.

How much is gagarinite-(ce) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen depending on size and provenance. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is gagarinite-(ce) safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. Contains rare earth elements and trace thorium; handle with care, avoid inhaling dust or prolonged contact, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like gagarinite-(ce)?+

Gagarinite-(Ce) is most often confused with Gagarinite-(Y), Fluorite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with gagarinite-(ce)?+

Gagarinite-(Ce) commonly co-occurs with Eudialyte, Microcline, Nepheline, Aegirine, Arfvedsonite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does gagarinite-(ce) form in?+

Gagarinite-(Ce) typically forms in alkaline pegmatites, agpaitic nepheline syenites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is gagarinite-(ce) used for?+

Gagarinite-(Ce) is used in collector.

Find gagarinite-(ce) on the map

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