Schlüterite-(Y) is an exceptionally rare titanium-silicate mineral known primarily from the alkaline rocks of Mont Saint-Hilaire. Collectors look for its characteristic yellowish-brown prismatic crystals embedded within pegmatite matrices, often requiring microscopic examination for positive identification.
Is this schlüterite-(y)?
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 schlüterite-(y) with a known reference. Schlüterite-(Y) sits at Mohs 4-5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Schlüterite-(Y) leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Schlüterite-(Y) typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: triclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.
Often confused with
Schlüterite-(Y) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside schlüterite-(y)
Minerals reported to co-occur with schlüterite-(y). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₂Y₂Ti₂SiO₈(OH)₂
- Mohs hardness
- 4-5
- Density
- 4.15 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Triclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Igneous Complexes
- Typical price
- $100-500+ per specimen
Where rockhounds find schlüterite-(y)
Classic worldwide localities
- Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec, Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline igneous complexes country — that is the host setting where schlüterite-(y) typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, sodalite 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 schlüterite-(y)?+
Where is schlüterite-(y) found?+
How much is schlüterite-(y) worth?+
What rocks look like schlüterite-(y)?+
What minerals are found with schlüterite-(y)?+
What kind of rock does schlüterite-(y) form in?+
What is schlüterite-(y) used for?+
Find schlüterite-(y) on the map
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