Zubkovaite is an exceptionally rare member of the apophyllite group, primarily found in the alkaline rock complexes of the Kola Peninsula. It typically occurs as small, pale yellow, tabular crystals embedded within hydrothermal cavities of pegmatites. Collectors look for its unique tetragonal morphology and restricted occurrence in Russia.
Is this zubkovaite?
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 zubkovaite with a known reference. Zubkovaite sits at Mohs 3.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Zubkovaite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Zubkovaite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brownish-yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals.
Often confused with
Zubkovaite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside zubkovaite
Minerals reported to co-occur with zubkovaite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Ca₄(Mg,Fe²⁺,Fe³⁺)₂(Si₄O₁₀)(OH)₂·4H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 3.5
- Density
- 2.83 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Tetragonal
- Crystal habit
- Tabular Crystals
- Cleavage
- None Observed
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- expensive
Where rockhounds find zubkovaite
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where zubkovaite typically forms. If you start seeing apophyllite, natrolite, 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 zubkovaite?+
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How much is zubkovaite worth?+
What rocks look like zubkovaite?+
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Find zubkovaite on the map
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