Zincohögbomite-2N2S is a rare complex oxide mineral belonging to the högbomite group, characterized by a high zinc content. It is typically found in high-grade metamorphic rocks as small, dark, tabular crystals that can be difficult to distinguish from spinel without chemical analysis.

Hardness
7-8
Mohs
Luster
Vitreous
Streak
White
Transparency
Translucent

Is this zincohögbomite-2n2s?

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 zincohögbomite-2n2s with a known reference. Zincohögbomite-2N2S sits at Mohs 7-8 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
  • 2
    Check the streak
    Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Zincohögbomite-2N2S leaves a white streak.
  • 3
    Read the luster
    Hold the specimen under a strong light. Zincohögbomite-2N2S typically shows a vitreous luster.
  • 4
    Match the color range
    Compare against the expected color range: dark brown, black, reddish brown.
  • 5
    Look at form & habit
    Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals.

Often confused with

Zincohögbomite-2N2S vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside zincohögbomite-2n2s

Minerals reported to co-occur with zincohögbomite-2n2s. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula
(Zn,Fe,Mg)₆(Al,Fe,Ti)₁₈O₃₂
Mohs hardness
7-8
Density
4.2-4.5 g/cm³
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous
Transparency
Translucent
Crystal system
Hexagonal
Crystal habit
Tabular Crystals
Cleavage
None
Rarity
Rare
Uses
Collector
Host rock
Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price
$50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find zincohögbomite-2n2s

Classic worldwide localities

  • Kaitoro, Tanzania
  • Franklin, New Jersey, USA
  • Madagascar

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where zincohögbomite-2n2s typically forms. If you start seeing spinel, magnetite, corundum in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify zincohögbomite-2n2s?+
Mohs hardness is 7-8. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include dark brown, black, reddish brown.
Where is zincohögbomite-2n2s found?+
Notable localities include Kaitoro, Tanzania; Franklin, New Jersey, USA; Madagascar.
How much is zincohögbomite-2n2s 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 zincohögbomite-2n2s?+
Zincohögbomite-2N2S is most often confused with Spinel. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.
What minerals are found with zincohögbomite-2n2s?+
Zincohögbomite-2N2S commonly co-occurs with Spinel, Magnetite, Corundum, Phlogopite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.
What kind of rock does zincohögbomite-2n2s form in?+
Zincohögbomite-2N2S typically forms in metamorphic rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.
What is zincohögbomite-2n2s used for?+
Zincohögbomite-2N2S is used in collector.

Find zincohögbomite-2n2s on the map

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