Hydroterskite is a rare cyclosilicate mineral found primarily in alkaline igneous environments of the Kola Peninsula in Russia. It is typically found as small, platy crystals associated with other rare zirconium silicates within pegmatitic dikes. Collectors often seek it out as an exotic addition to suites of Russian alkaline minerals.
Is this hydroterskite?
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 hydroterskite with a known reference. Hydroterskite sits at Mohs 4.5-5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydroterskite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroterskite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: colorless, white, pale yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: platy crystals, tabular.
Often confused with
Hydroterskite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside hydroterskite
Minerals reported to co-occur with hydroterskite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₄ZrSi₆O₁₆·2H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 4.5-5
- Density
- 2.3-2.4 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Platy Crystals, Tabular
- Cleavage
- Perfect
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-200 thumbnail
Where rockhounds find hydroterskite
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Russia
- Lovozero Massif, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where hydroterskite typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, nepheline, microcline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals, tabular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find hydroterskite on the map
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