Ivanyukite-K is a rare titanium silicate mineral found primarily in the alkaline massifs of the Kola Peninsula. It typically forms small, yellow to brownish rhombohedral crystals or crusts within pegmatitic cavities, often requiring micro-analysis for definitive identification.
Is this ivanyukite-k?
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 ivanyukite-k with a known reference. Ivanyukite-K sits at Mohs 4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Ivanyukite-K leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Ivanyukite-K typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals, fine-grained aggregates.
Often confused with
Ivanyukite-K vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside ivanyukite-k
Minerals reported to co-occur with ivanyukite-k. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂Ti₄(SiO₄)₃(OH)₂·10H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 4
- Density
- 2.44 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- Crystal habit
- Rhombohedral Crystals, Fine-grained Aggregates
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find ivanyukite-k
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where ivanyukite-k typically forms. If you start seeing microcline, aegirine, nepheline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a rhombohedral crystals, fine-grained aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify ivanyukite-k?+
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What rocks look like ivanyukite-k?+
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Find ivanyukite-k on the map
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