Zoltaiite is an extremely rare lead-barium silicate mineral first discovered in alkaline pegmatites of the Sakha Republic. It typically forms small, yellow to brown tabular crystals that require microscopic examination for positive identification. It is highly sought after by advanced systematic mineral collectors due to its restricted type locality.

Hardness

6-7

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrare

Zoltaiite

Hardness: 6-7
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

No image

Is this zoltaiite?

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 zoltaiite with a known reference. Zoltaiite sits at Mohs 6-7 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Zoltaiite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Zoltaiite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals.

Often found alongside zoltaiite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₂Ba₂Fe₃Si₈O₂₄(OH)₂
Mohs hardness: 6-7
Density: 4.57 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites
Typical price: n/a

Where rockhounds find zoltaiite

Classic worldwide localities

Sakha Republic, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where zoltaiite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, feldspar, aegirine 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 zoltaiite?+

Mohs hardness is 6-7. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown.

Where is zoltaiite found?+

Notable localities include Sakha Republic, Russia.

How much is zoltaiite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of n/a. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is zoltaiite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead and barium; avoid ingestion, inhalation of dust, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with zoltaiite?+

Zoltaiite commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Feldspar, Aegirine. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does zoltaiite form in?+

Zoltaiite typically forms in alkaline pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is zoltaiite used for?+

Zoltaiite is used in collector.

Find zoltaiite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.