Munakataite is a rare secondary mineral typically found as distinct, bright blue acicular sprays in oxidized mineral deposits. It is a selenate-sulfate mineral that is chemically and visually similar to linarite, often requiring chemical analysis for definitive identification.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Pale Blue

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareMixite Group family

Munakataite

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Pale Blue
Transparency: Translucent

Is this munakataite?

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 munakataite with a known reference. Munakataite sits at Mohs 3-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Munakataite leaves a pale blue streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Munakataite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: bright blue, pale blue.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: acicular crystals, radiating sprays, crusts.

Often confused with

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

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Munakataite leaves pale blue, Brochantite leaves pale-green.

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Often found alongside munakataite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₂Cu₂(SeO₃)(SO₄)(OH)₄
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 5.0-5.3 g/cm³
Colors: Bright Blue Pale Blue
Streak: Pale Blue
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Acicular Crystals, Radiating Sprays, Crusts
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Hydrothermal Lead-copper Deposits
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen depending on size and crystal quality

Where rockhounds find munakataite

Classic worldwide localities

Munakata, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan
Keiichi, Japan
Otto Mountain, California, USA

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized hydrothermal lead-copper deposits country — that is the host setting where munakataite typically forms. If you start seeing linarite, cerussite, malachite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a acicular crystals, radiating sprays, crusts habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify munakataite?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is pale blue. Common colors include bright blue, pale blue.

Where is munakataite found?+

Notable localities include Munakata, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan; Keiichi, Japan; Otto Mountain, California, USA.

How much is munakataite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen depending on size and crystal quality. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is munakataite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead and copper, which are toxic. Avoid inhalation of dust or ingestion, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like munakataite?+

Munakataite is most often confused with Linarite, Chalcomenite, Brochantite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with munakataite?+

Munakataite commonly co-occurs with Linarite, Cerussite, Malachite, Barite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does munakataite form in?+

Munakataite typically forms in oxidized hydrothermal lead-copper deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is munakataite used for?+

Munakataite is used in collector.

Find munakataite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.