How do I identify Chibaite?

Chibaite can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Chibaite?

Chibaite typically appears in colorless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Chibaite?

Chibaite has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Chibaite

A variety of Minerals

What is Chibaite?

Chibaite is a rare silicate mineral. It is a silica clathrate with formula SIO2•n(CH4,C2H6,C3H8,i-C4H10) (n = 3/17 (max)). The mineral is cubic (diploidal class, m3) and the silica hosts or traps various hydrocarbon molecules, such as methane, ethane, propane and isobutane. Chibaite was first described for specimens collected from Arakawa, Minamibōsō, Chiba Prefecture, Honshu Island, Japan. The mineral was approved by the IMA in 2009.

Chibaite Market Value Calculator

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

Chibaite Localities Map

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

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North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: colorless
Hardness (Mohs): 6.5 - 7
Density: 1.933 g/cm³

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula: SiO2 · n(CH4, C2H6, C3H8, i-C4H10) (n = 3/17 (max)) Alternatively it can be given as Nax(Si136−xAlx)Σ136O272·(CH4, C2H6, C3H8, C4H10)24−x
Elements: C, H, O, Si

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