Kuzmenkoite-Mn is a rare member of the labuntsovite group found primarily in alkaline pegmatites. It typically occurs as small, yellow to brown prismatic crystals often forming radial sprays on matrix.
Is this kuzmenkoite-mn?
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 kuzmenkoite-mn with a known reference. Kuzmenkoite-Mn 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. Kuzmenkoite-Mn leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Kuzmenkoite-Mn typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, orange, red-brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals, radial aggregates.
Often confused with
Kuzmenkoite-Mn vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside kuzmenkoite-mn
Minerals reported to co-occur with kuzmenkoite-mn. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂Mn(Ti,Nb)₄(Si₄O₁₂)₂(OH,O)₄·6H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 5
- Density
- 2.85 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals, Radial Aggregates
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find kuzmenkoite-mn
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Russia
- Lovozero Massif, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where kuzmenkoite-mn typically forms. If you start seeing microcline, aegirine, nepheline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals, radial aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find kuzmenkoite-mn on the map
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