Kamphaugite-(Y) is a rare yttrium-bearing carbonate mineral that typically occurs as thin, platy, pearl-like crystals. It is primarily found in complex rare-earth element (REE) environments associated with syenite pegmatites. Collectors generally look for its characteristic radial or rosette-like crystal clusters in hydrothermal vugs.
Is this kamphaugite-(y)?
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 kamphaugite-(y) with a known reference. Kamphaugite-(Y) sits at Mohs 3 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Kamphaugite-(Y) leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Kamphaugite-(Y) typically shows a pearly luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless, pale yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: platy crystals, radial aggregates.
Often found alongside kamphaugite-(y)
Minerals reported to co-occur with kamphaugite-(y). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Ca(Y,Dy)(CO₃)₂(OH)·H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 3
- Density
- 3.3 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Pearly
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Tetragonal
- Crystal habit
- Platy Crystals, Radial Aggregates
- Cleavage
- Perfect On {001}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Nepheline Syenite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find kamphaugite-(y)
Classic worldwide localities
- Sagåsen quarry, Norway
- Strange Lake, Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in nepheline syenite pegmatites country — that is the host setting where kamphaugite-(y) typically forms. If you start seeing fluorite, quartz, microcline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals, radial aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify kamphaugite-(y)?+
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Find kamphaugite-(y) on the map
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