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

mineralrarenull family

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 — that is 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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