Kamenevite is a rare potassium-zirconium silicate found primarily in the hyperalkaline pegmatites of the Khibiny Massif. It typically occurs as small, colorless to white tabular crystals often forming subparallel aggregates in association with other rare alkaline minerals.
Is this kamenevite?
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 kamenevite with a known reference. Kamenevite sits at Mohs 3-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Kamenevite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Kamenevite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: colorless, white, yellowish.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: tabular crystals, subparallel aggregates.
Often confused with
Kamenevite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside kamenevite
Minerals reported to co-occur with kamenevite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂ZrSi₂O₇
- Mohs hardness
- 3-4
- Density
- 3.32 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Tabular Crystals, Subparallel Aggregates
- Cleavage
- Distinct
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $100-500 for small crystals
Where rockhounds find kamenevite
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where kamenevite typically forms. If you start seeing microcline, nepheline, aegirine in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, subparallel aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find kamenevite on the map
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