Natroniobite is a rare sodium niobate mineral that typically forms as a secondary alteration product in alkaline pegmatite environments. It is most frequently identified by its distinct yellowish-brown color and submetallic luster, though it is often difficult to distinguish from other niobates without chemical analysis.
Is this natroniobite?
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 natroniobite with a known reference. Natroniobite sits at Mohs 6, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Natroniobite leaves a yellowish streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Natroniobite typically shows a submetallic luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, black.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: tabular crystals, massive.
Often confused with
Natroniobite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside natroniobite
Minerals reported to co-occur with natroniobite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- NaNbO₃
- Mohs hardness
- 6
- Density
- 5.6-5.8 g/cm³
- Streak
- Yellowish
- Luster
- Submetallic
- Transparency
- Opaque
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Tabular Crystals, Massive
- Cleavage
- Distinct
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find natroniobite
Classic worldwide localities
- Kola Peninsula, Russia
- Norway
- Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country, the host setting where natroniobite typically forms. If you start seeing albite, microcline, zircon in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify natroniobite?+
Where is natroniobite found?+
How much is natroniobite worth?+
What rocks look like natroniobite?+
What minerals are found with natroniobite?+
What kind of rock does natroniobite form in?+
What is natroniobite used for?+
Find natroniobite on the map
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