Natrotantite is a rare sodium-tantalum oxide mineral typically found in highly fractionated granite pegmatites. It is often identified by its distinct cubic habit and lack of radioactivity, distinguishing it from the common radioactive members of the pyrochlore group. Collectors typically encounter it as small, pale yellow crystals embedded within complex pegmatitic matrices.
Is this natrotantite?
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 natrotantite with a known reference. Natrotantite sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Natrotantite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Natrotantite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, pale yellow, colorless.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: cubic. Typical habit: equant to subhedral crystals.
Often found alongside natrotantite
Minerals reported to co-occur with natrotantite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₂Ta₄O₁₁
- Mohs hardness
- 5-6
- Density
- 6.12-6.50 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- Crystal habit
- Equant to Subhedral Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Granite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $100-500 per specimen
Where rockhounds find natrotantite
Classic worldwide localities
- Muiane pegmatite, Mozambique
- Tanco mine, Manitoba, Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in granite pegmatites country — that is the host setting where natrotantite typically forms. If you start seeing albite, quartz, microcline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a equant to subhedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find natrotantite on the map
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