Zinconigerite-2N1S is an extremely rare oxide mineral belonging to the nigerite group, characterized by its high hardness and trigonal symmetry. It typically occurs as small, brownish tabular crystals embedded in complex pegmatitic rocks associated with tin mineralization.

Hardness
8-9
Mohs
Luster
Vitreous
Streak
White
Transparency
Translucent

Is this zinconigerite-2n1s?

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 zinconigerite-2n1s with a known reference. Zinconigerite-2N1S sits at Mohs 8-9 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
  • 2
    Check the streak
    Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Zinconigerite-2N1S leaves a white streak.
  • 3
    Read the luster
    Hold the specimen under a strong light. Zinconigerite-2N1S typically shows a vitreous luster.
  • 4
    Match the color range
    Compare against the expected color range: brown, reddish brown.
  • 5
    Look at form & habit
    Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals.

Often confused with

Zinconigerite-2N1S vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside zinconigerite-2n1s

Minerals reported to co-occur with zinconigerite-2n1s. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula
(Zn,Fe²⁺,Mg)(Sn,Ti)₂(Al,Fe³⁺)₁₂O₂₂OH
Mohs hardness
8-9
Density
4.5-4.8 g/cm³
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous
Transparency
Translucent
Crystal system
Trigonal
Crystal habit
Tabular Crystals
Cleavage
None
Rarity
Rare
Uses
Collector
Host rock
Granite Pegmatites
Typical price
$50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find zinconigerite-2n1s

Classic worldwide localities

  • Nigeria
  • Russia
  • Sweden
  • Finland

Field-hunting tip

Look in granite pegmatites country — that is the host setting where zinconigerite-2n1s typically forms. If you start seeing cassiterite, sillimanite, gahnite 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 zinconigerite-2n1s?+
Mohs hardness is 8-9. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include brown, reddish brown.
Where is zinconigerite-2n1s found?+
Notable localities include Nigeria; Russia; Sweden; Finland.
How much is zinconigerite-2n1s 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 zinconigerite-2n1s?+
Zinconigerite-2N1S is most often confused with Corundum, Gahnite, Spinel. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.
What minerals are found with zinconigerite-2n1s?+
Zinconigerite-2N1S commonly co-occurs with Cassiterite, Sillimanite, Gahnite, Quartz. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.
What kind of rock does zinconigerite-2n1s form in?+
Zinconigerite-2N1S typically forms in granite pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.
What is zinconigerite-2n1s used for?+
Zinconigerite-2N1S is used in collector.

Find zinconigerite-2n1s on the map

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