Hydroxykenomicrolite is a rare member of the microlite group characterized by a deficiency in the A-site and a hydroxyl-dominant anion. It is typically found as small, octahedral crystals in highly evolved granitic pegmatites, often associated with other rare earth minerals.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Resinous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareMicrolite Group family

Hydroxykenomicrolite

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

Is this hydroxykenomicrolite?

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 hydroxykenomicrolite with a known reference. Hydroxykenomicrolite 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. Hydroxykenomicrolite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxykenomicrolite typically shows a resinous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, yellow-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals.

Often found alongside hydroxykenomicrolite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: (□,Na,Ca,Mn)₂(Ta,Nb)₂O₆(OH)
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 5.5-6.0 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Yellow-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Resinous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Octahedral Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Granite Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find hydroxykenomicrolite

Classic worldwide localities

Brazil
Norway
Russia
Canada

Field-hunting tip

Look in granite pegmatites country, the host setting where hydroxykenomicrolite typically forms. If you start seeing albite, quartz, lepidolite 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 hydroxykenomicrolite?+

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

Where is hydroxykenomicrolite found?+

Notable localities include Brazil; Norway; Russia; Canada.

How much is hydroxykenomicrolite 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 hydroxykenomicrolite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. Contains radioactive elements like tantalum and potentially trace uranium; store in an airtight container and wash hands after handling to prevent ingestion or inhalation of radioactive dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with hydroxykenomicrolite?+

Hydroxykenomicrolite commonly co-occurs with Albite, Quartz, Lepidolite, Beryl. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does hydroxykenomicrolite form in?+

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

What is hydroxykenomicrolite used for?+

Hydroxykenomicrolite is used in collector.

Find hydroxykenomicrolite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.