Korobitsynite is a rare member of the labuntsovite group typically found as small, distinct prismatic crystals in alkaline igneous environments. Collectors prize it for its specific association with the complex pegmatites of the Kola Peninsula. It is best identified by its characteristic yellow hue and association with other rare alkaline minerals.
Is this korobitsynite?
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 korobitsynite with a known reference. Korobitsynite sits at Mohs ~5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Streak: white.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Luster: vitreous.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: colorless.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: crystalline, prismatic.
Often confused with
Korobitsynite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside korobitsynite
Minerals reported to co-occur with korobitsynite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (Na,□)₄Ti₂(Si₄O₁₂)(O,OH)₂·4H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- ~5
- Density
- 2.72 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Crystalline, prismatic
- Cleavage
- Imperfect on {001}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- In miarolitic cavities in pegmatite
Where rockhounds find korobitsynite
Classic worldwide localities
- Mts. Alluaiv and Karnasurt, Lovozero massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
- Aris phonolites, Windhoek, Namibia
Field-hunting tip
Where it forms: In miarolitic cavities in pegmatite. If you start seeing aegirine, shortite, rhodochrosite in float, you are in the right ground. Typical habit: crystalline, prismatic. Train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify korobitsynite?+
Where is korobitsynite found?+
What rocks look like korobitsynite?+
What minerals are found with korobitsynite?+
What kind of rock does korobitsynite form in?+
What is korobitsynite used for?+
Find korobitsynite on the map
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