How do I identify Northupite?

Northupite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Northupite?

Northupite typically appears in Colourless, pale yellow, grey, brown; colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Northupite?

Northupite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

How to Identify Northupite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Northupite?

Northupite is an uncommon evaporite mineral, with the chemical formula Na3Mg(CO3)2Cl. It occurs as colourless to dark grey or brown octahedral crystals and as globular masses. In synthetic material it forms a series with tychite (Na6Mg2(CO3)4SO4). It was discovered in 1895 at Searles Lake, San Bernardino County, California by C. H. Northup (born 1861) from San Jose, California, for whom Northupite is named. It occurs associated with tychite, pirssonite at Searles Lake and with shortite, trona, pirssonite, gaylussite, labuntsovite, searlesite, norsethite, loughlinite, pyrite and quartz in the Green River Formation of Wyoming.

Northupite Market Value Calculator

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

Northupite Localities Map

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