Hydroxykenoelsmoreite is a rare member of the pyrochlore supergroup featuring a vacancy-dominant structure. Collectors typically look for its distinct octahedral habit in granitic pegmatites, where it occurs as a primary or secondary tungsten-bearing mineral.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrarePyrochlore Supergroup family

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite

Hardness: 5-5.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this hydroxykenoelsmoreite?

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 hydroxykenoelsmoreite with a known reference. Hydroxykenoelsmoreite sits at Mohs 5-5.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydroxykenoelsmoreite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxykenoelsmoreite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, colorless.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals.

Often found alongside hydroxykenoelsmoreite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: W₂◻₂O₆(OH)
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 4.5-5.2 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Colorless
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Octahedral Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Granitic Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find hydroxykenoelsmoreite

Classic worldwide localities

Sweden
Czech Republic
Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in granitic pegmatites country — that is the host setting where hydroxykenoelsmoreite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, feldspar, mica in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a octahedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify hydroxykenoelsmoreite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-5.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, colorless.

Where is hydroxykenoelsmoreite found?+

Notable localities include Sweden; Czech Republic; Russia.

How much is hydroxykenoelsmoreite worth?+

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

Is hydroxykenoelsmoreite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. Contains radioactive elements (typically thorium or uranium impurities in pyrochlore group members); handle with care and store away from other sensitive mineral specimens. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with hydroxykenoelsmoreite?+

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite 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 hydroxykenoelsmoreite form in?+

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite typically forms in granitic pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is hydroxykenoelsmoreite used for?+

Hydroxykenoelsmoreite is used in collector.

Find hydroxykenoelsmoreite on the map

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