How do I identify Cafetite?

Cafetite can be identified by its hardness of 4 - 5 on the Mohs scale, yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Cafetite?

Cafetite typically appears in yellow, colourless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Cafetite?

Cafetite has a hardness of 4 - 5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

How to Identify Cafetite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Cafetite?

Cafetite is a rare titanium oxide mineral with formula (Ca,Mg)(Fe,Al)2Ti4O12·4(H2O). It is named for its composition, Ca-Fe-Ti. It was first described in 1959 for an occurrence in the Afrikanda Massif, Afrikanda, Kola Peninsula, Murmanskaja Oblast, Northern Region, Russia. It is also reported from the Khibiny and Kovdor massifs of the Kola Peninsula and from Meagher County, Montana, US. It occurs in pegmatites in a pyroxenite intrusion as crystals in miarolitic cavities. It occurs associated with ilmenite, titaniferous magnetite, titanite, anatase, perovskite, baddeleyite, phlogopite, clinochlore and kassite.

Cafetite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Cafetite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Cafetite Localities Map

See where Cafetite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: yellow, colourless
Hardness (Mohs): 4 - 5
Density: 3.14 g/cm³
Streak: white

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula: CaTi2O5 · H2O Originally reported as (Ca,Mg)(Fe,Al)2Ti4O12.4H2O; name reflects Fe content, since found to be non-essential.
Elements: Ca, H, O, Ti

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