Steinhardtite is a rare naturally occurring metallic aluminum phase found primarily within the Khatyrka meteorite. It is typically discovered as microscopic grains associated with other rare aluminum-copper alloys in carbonaceous chondrites, requiring sophisticated analysis for identification.

Hardness

3.5

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Metallic Grey

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrare

Steinhardtite

Hardness: 3.5
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Metallic Grey
Transparency: Opaque

No image

Is this steinhardtite?

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 steinhardtite with a known reference. Steinhardtite sits at Mohs 3.5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Steinhardtite leaves a metallic grey streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Steinhardtite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: silver-white, gray.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: granular, microscopic inclusions.

Often found alongside steinhardtite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Al
Mohs hardness: 3.5
Density: 12.8-13.0 g/cm³
Colors: Silver-white Gray
Streak: Metallic Grey
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Granular, Microscopic Inclusions
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector, Research
Host rock: CV3 Carbonaceous Chondrite Meteorite
Typical price: n/a (extremely rare meteorite specimen only)

Where rockhounds find steinhardtite

Classic worldwide localities

Khatyrka meteorite, Koryak Mountains, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in cv3 carbonaceous chondrite meteorite country, the host setting where steinhardtite typically forms. If you start seeing khatyrkite, cupalite, spinel in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a granular, microscopic inclusions habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify steinhardtite?+

Mohs hardness is 3.5. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is metallic grey. Common colors include silver-white, gray.

Where is steinhardtite found?+

Notable localities include Khatyrka meteorite, Koryak Mountains, Russia.

How much is steinhardtite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of n/a (extremely rare meteorite specimen only). Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What minerals are found with steinhardtite?+

Steinhardtite commonly co-occurs with khatyrkite, cupalite, spinel, forsterite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does steinhardtite form in?+

Steinhardtite typically forms in cv3 carbonaceous chondrite meteorite. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is steinhardtite used for?+

Steinhardtite is used in collector, research.

Find steinhardtite on the map

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