Labuntsovite-Fe is a rare member of the complex labuntsovite group of titanium silicates. It typically forms small, prismatic to tabular crystals in alkaline pegmatites and is most sought after by advanced micromount and systematic collectors.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareLabuntsovite Group family

Labuntsovite-Fe

Hardness: 5-6
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this labuntsovite-fe?

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 labuntsovite-fe with a known reference. Labuntsovite-Fe sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Labuntsovite-Fe leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Labuntsovite-Fe typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: orange, brown, yellow, red.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic to tabular crystals.

Often confused with

Labuntsovite-Fe vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Labuntsovite-Fe and vitreous to pearly on Elpidite.

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Often found alongside labuntsovite-fe

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

All properties

Chemical formula: K₂Ti₄(Si₄O₁₂)(O,OH)₄·5H₂O
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 2.8-2.9 g/cm³
Colors: Orange Brown Yellow Red
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic to Tabular Crystals
Cleavage: Poor
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Nepheline Syenite Pegmatites
Typical price: $20-150 per specimen

Where rockhounds find labuntsovite-fe

Classic worldwide localities

Khibiny Massif, Russia
Lovozero Massif, Russia
Mont Saint-Hilaire, Canada

Field-hunting tip

Look in nepheline syenite pegmatites country — that is the host setting where labuntsovite-fe typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, eudialyte in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic to tabular crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify labuntsovite-fe?+

Mohs hardness is 5-6. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include orange, brown, yellow, red.

Where is labuntsovite-fe found?+

Notable localities include Khibiny Massif, Russia; Lovozero Massif, Russia; Mont Saint-Hilaire, Canada.

How much is labuntsovite-fe worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $20-150 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like labuntsovite-fe?+

Labuntsovite-Fe is most often confused with Nenadkevichite, Elpidite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with labuntsovite-fe?+

Labuntsovite-Fe commonly co-occurs with Aegirine, Microcline, Eudialyte, Natrolite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does labuntsovite-fe form in?+

Labuntsovite-Fe typically forms in nepheline syenite pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is labuntsovite-fe used for?+

Labuntsovite-Fe is used in collector.

Find labuntsovite-fe on the map

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