Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) is a rare rare-earth element carbonate found primarily in complex alkaline rock formations and carbonatite deposits. It typically forms as small, tabular, hexagonal crystals or granular masses with a distinct vitreous luster. Collectors prize it as a rare member of the bastnäsite group, often requiring analytical confirmation due to its similarity to other REE minerals.

Hardness

4-4.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareBastnäsite Group family

Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd)

Hardness: 4-4.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd)?

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 hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) with a known reference. Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) sits at Mohs 4-4.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, reddish-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals, massive, granular.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Nd(CO₃)(OH)
Mohs hardness: 4-4.5
Density: 5.6-5.8 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Reddish-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals, Massive, Granular
Cleavage: Distinct On {0001}
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector, Scientific Research
Host rock: Alkaline Igneous Rocks, Carbonatites, Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per thumbnail or small cabinet specimen

Where rockhounds find hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd)

Classic worldwide localities

Khibiny Massif, Russia
Bayan Obo, China
Mountain Pass, USA

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline igneous rocks, carbonatites, pegmatites country — that is the host setting where hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, nepheline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd)?+

Mohs hardness is 4-4.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, reddish-brown.

Where is hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) found?+

Notable localities include Khibiny Massif, Russia; Bayan Obo, China; Mountain Pass, USA.

How much is hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) worth?+

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

Is hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. Contains thorium and rare earth elements; handle with care, wash hands after handling, and avoid creating dust when breaking or grinding specimens. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd)?+

Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) is most often confused with Bastnäsite-(Ce), Parisite-(Ce). A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd)?+

Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) commonly co-occurs with Aegirine, Microcline, Nepheline, Fluorite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) form in?+

Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) typically forms in alkaline igneous rocks, carbonatites, pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) used for?+

Hydroxylbastnäsite-(Nd) is used in collector, scientific research.

Find hydroxylbastnäsite-(nd) on the map

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