Kenoplumbomicrolite is a rare member of the pyrochlore supergroup, specifically a lead-dominant variety characterized by a vacancy in the A-site. It is typically found as small, octahedral crystals in highly evolved granitic pegmatites. Collectors look for its characteristic resinous luster and often earthy, yellowish-brown to reddish-brown coloration.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Resinous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareMicrolite Group family

Kenoplumbomicrolite

Hardness: 5-5.5
Luster: Resinous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this kenoplumbomicrolite?

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 kenoplumbomicrolite with a known reference. Kenoplumbomicrolite sits at Mohs 5-5.5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Kenoplumbomicrolite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Kenoplumbomicrolite typically shows a resinous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, orange, reddish-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals.

Often found alongside kenoplumbomicrolite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: (Pb,□,Ca)₂(Ta,Nb)₂(O,OH,F)₇
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 6.0-6.5 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Orange Reddish-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Resinous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Octahedral Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Granite Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find kenoplumbomicrolite

Classic worldwide localities

Varuträsk, Sweden

Field-hunting tip

Look in granite pegmatites country, the host setting where kenoplumbomicrolite typically forms. If you start seeing lepidolite, pollucite, quartz 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 kenoplumbomicrolite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-5.5. It typically shows a resinous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, orange, reddish-brown.

Where is kenoplumbomicrolite found?+

Notable localities include Varuträsk, Sweden.

How much is kenoplumbomicrolite worth?+

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

Is kenoplumbomicrolite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead and is often slightly radioactive due to uranium/thorium impurities; handle with care, wash hands after handling, and store away from living areas. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with kenoplumbomicrolite?+

Kenoplumbomicrolite commonly co-occurs with Lepidolite, Pollucite, Quartz, Albite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does kenoplumbomicrolite form in?+

Kenoplumbomicrolite typically forms in granite pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is kenoplumbomicrolite used for?+

Kenoplumbomicrolite is used in collector.

Find kenoplumbomicrolite on the map

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