Nicksobolevite is a rare copper selenite chloride mineral discovered in the volcanic fumaroles of the Tolbachik volcano. It typically forms as thin, platy crystals with a distinctive deep violet to blue color and is highly prized by mineral collectors specializing in rare volcanic species.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Violet

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrare

Nicksobolevite

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Violet
Transparency: Translucent

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Is this nicksobolevite?

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 nicksobolevite with a known reference. Nicksobolevite 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. Nicksobolevite leaves a violet streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Nicksobolevite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: deep violet, dark blue.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: platy crystals.

Often confused with

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

mineral

Chalcomenite

Mohs 2.5

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Nicksobolevite leaves violet, Chalcomenite leaves pale blue.

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Often found alongside nicksobolevite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu₇(SeO₃)₄Cl₆
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 3.84 g/cm³
Colors: Deep Violet Dark Blue
Streak: Violet
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Platy Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Volcanic Fumaroles
Typical price: $100-500 per specimen

Where rockhounds find nicksobolevite

Classic worldwide localities

Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in volcanic fumaroles country — that is the host setting where nicksobolevite typically forms. If you start seeing sophiite, halite, sylvite 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 nicksobolevite?+

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

Where is nicksobolevite found?+

Notable localities include Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia.

How much is nicksobolevite worth?+

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

Is nicksobolevite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains copper and selenium; handle with care, do not ingest, wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like nicksobolevite?+

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

What minerals are found with nicksobolevite?+

Nicksobolevite commonly co-occurs with sophiite, halite, sylvite, tenorite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does nicksobolevite form in?+

Nicksobolevite typically forms in volcanic fumaroles. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is nicksobolevite used for?+

Nicksobolevite is used in collector.

Find nicksobolevite on the map

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