Hydroxynatropyrochlore is a rare member of the pyrochlore group characterized by its sodium and hydroxyl content within the structural formula. It typically forms sharp, octahedral crystals in alkaline rock environments such as carbonatites and syenites, often appearing in shades of brown or yellow.
Is this hydroxynatropyrochlore?
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 hydroxynatropyrochlore with a known reference. Hydroxynatropyrochlore sits at Mohs 5-5.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydroxynatropyrochlore leaves a light yellow streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxynatropyrochlore typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, reddish-brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals.
Often confused with
Hydroxynatropyrochlore vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside hydroxynatropyrochlore
Minerals reported to co-occur with hydroxynatropyrochlore. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (Na,Ca,◻)₂Nb₂O₆(OH)
- Mohs hardness
- 5-5.5
- Density
- 4.2-4.8 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- Light Yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- Crystal habit
- Octahedral Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Igneous Rocks
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find hydroxynatropyrochlore
Classic worldwide localities
- Fen Complex, Norway
- Kola Peninsula, Russia
- Langesundsfjord, Norway
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline igneous rocks country — that is the host setting where hydroxynatropyrochlore typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, nepheline, fluorapatite 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 hydroxynatropyrochlore?+
Where is hydroxynatropyrochlore found?+
How much is hydroxynatropyrochlore worth?+
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What rocks look like hydroxynatropyrochlore?+
What minerals are found with hydroxynatropyrochlore?+
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Find hydroxynatropyrochlore on the map
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