Labuntsovite-Mn is a rare member of the labuntsovite group typically occurring as small, vibrant reddish-brown prismatic crystals. It is most often found in alkaline igneous environments like the Khibiny Massif or the famous pegmatites of Mont Saint-Hilaire. Collectors prize these specimens for their sharp crystal habit and distinct coloration within rare alkaline mineral assemblages.
Is this labuntsovite-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 labuntsovite-mn with a known reference. Labuntsovite-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. Labuntsovite-Mn leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Labuntsovite-Mn typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: red, brown, orange, yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals, radial aggregates.
Often confused with
Labuntsovite-Mn vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside labuntsovite-mn
Minerals reported to co-occur with labuntsovite-mn. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (K,Ba,Na,Ca)₈(Ti,Nb)₈(Si₄O₁₂)₄(O,OH)₈·nH₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 5
- Density
- 2.85-2.95 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals, Radial Aggregates
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {101}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find labuntsovite-mn
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif (Russia)
- Lovozero Massif (Russia)
- Mont Saint-Hilaire (Canada)
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where labuntsovite-mn typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, eudialyte 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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