Lukechangite-(Ce) is an extremely rare carbonate mineral first discovered in the alkaline rocks of Mont Saint-Hilaire. It typically occurs as small, delicate platy crystals associated with complex pegmatite mineral suites. Collectors prize it primarily for its scientific significance and limited global occurrence.

Hardness

4-5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrareBastnäsite Group family

Lukechangite-(Ce)

Hardness: 4-5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

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Is this lukechangite-(ce)?

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 lukechangite-(ce) with a known reference. Lukechangite-(Ce) sits at Mohs 4-5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Lukechangite-(Ce) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Lukechangite-(Ce) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brownish-yellow, colorless.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: platy crystals.

Often found alongside lukechangite-(ce)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Na₃Ce₂(CO₃)₄F
Mohs hardness: 4-5
Density: 4.35 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brownish-yellow Colorless
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Platy Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Igneous Rocks
Typical price: $100-500 depending on specimen quality

Where rockhounds find lukechangite-(ce)

Classic worldwide localities

Mont Saint-Hilaire (Quebec, Canada)

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline igneous rocks country — that is the host setting where lukechangite-(ce) typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, sodalite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify lukechangite-(ce)?+

Mohs hardness is 4-5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brownish-yellow, colorless.

Where is lukechangite-(ce) found?+

Notable localities include Mont Saint-Hilaire (Quebec, Canada).

How much is lukechangite-(ce) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $100-500 depending on specimen quality. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What minerals are found with lukechangite-(ce)?+

Lukechangite-(Ce) commonly co-occurs with Aegirine, Microcline, Sodalite, Fluorite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does lukechangite-(ce) form in?+

Lukechangite-(Ce) typically forms in alkaline igneous rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is lukechangite-(ce) used for?+

Lukechangite-(Ce) is used in collector.

Find lukechangite-(ce) on the map

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