Parakuzmenkoite-Fe is a rare member of the complex labuntsovite group, typically found in agpaitic alkaline pegmatites. It occurs as small, brownish, prismatic crystals often nestled within cavities of host rocks. Identification usually requires X-ray diffraction or chemical analysis due to the similarity between other members of its complex mineral group.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareLabuntsovite Group family

Parakuzmenkoite-Fe

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this parakuzmenkoite-fe?

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 parakuzmenkoite-fe with a known reference. Parakuzmenkoite-Fe sits at Mohs 5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Parakuzmenkoite-Fe leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Parakuzmenkoite-Fe typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: brown, yellow-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside parakuzmenkoite-fe

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

All properties

Chemical formula: (K,Ba,Na,H₂O)₄(Fe,Mn,Ti,Nb)₂(Ti,Nb)₂(Si₄O₁₂)₂(O,OH)₄·nH₂O
Mohs hardness: 5
Density: 2.88 g/cm³
Colors: Brown Yellow-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find parakuzmenkoite-fe

Classic worldwide localities

Kola Peninsula, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where parakuzmenkoite-fe typically forms. If you start seeing microcline, aegirine, arfvedsonite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify parakuzmenkoite-fe?+

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

Where is parakuzmenkoite-fe found?+

Notable localities include Kola Peninsula, Russia.

How much is parakuzmenkoite-fe worth?+

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

What rocks look like parakuzmenkoite-fe?+

Parakuzmenkoite-Fe is most often confused with Kuzmenkoite-Mn. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with parakuzmenkoite-fe?+

Parakuzmenkoite-Fe commonly co-occurs with Microcline, Aegirine, Arfvedsonite, Eudialyte. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does parakuzmenkoite-fe form in?+

Parakuzmenkoite-Fe typically forms in alkaline pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is parakuzmenkoite-fe used for?+

Parakuzmenkoite-Fe is used in collector.

Find parakuzmenkoite-fe on the map

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