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 — that is 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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