Tsepinite-K is a rare member of the labuntsovite group found primarily in hyper-alkaline pegmatite complexes. It typically occurs as small prismatic or tabular crystals within cavities, often associated with other rare alkaline minerals like aegirine and eudialyte. Collectors prize it for its association with the unique mineralogy of the Kola Peninsula.
Is this tsepinite-k?
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 tsepinite-k with a known reference. Tsepinite-K sits at Mohs 5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Tsepinite-K leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Tsepinite-K typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, orange, colorless.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic to tabular crystals.
Often confused with
Tsepinite-K vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside tsepinite-k
Minerals reported to co-occur with tsepinite-k. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (K,Ba,Na,Sr)₂(Ti,Nb)₄(Si₄O₁₂)(OH,O)₄·5H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 5
- Density
- 2.7-2.8 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic to Tabular Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per thumbnail specimen
Where rockhounds find tsepinite-k
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
- Lovozero Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where tsepinite-k typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, nepheline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic to tabular crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify tsepinite-k?+
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What rocks look like tsepinite-k?+
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Find tsepinite-k on the map
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