Zircophyllite
A variety of Astrophyllite Group
What is Zircophyllite?
Zircophyllite is a complex mineral, formula (K,Na)3(Mn,Fe)7(Zr,Ti,Nb)2Si8O24(OH,F)7. It crystallizes in the triclinic - pinacoidal crystal class as dark brown to black micaceous plates. It has perfect 001 cleavage, a Mohs hardness of 4 to 4.5 and a specific gravity of 3.34. Its indices of refraction are nα=1.708 nβ=1.738 nγ=1.747 and it has a 2V optical angle of 62°. It occurs with natrolite in alkali pegmatites. It was discovered in 1972 in the Korgeredabinsh massif, Tuva, Russia and is named for its zirconium content and its relationship to astrophyllite. It is also known from the Mont Saint-Hilaire intrusive complex of Québec, Canada. Zircophyllite is radioactive, but the radioactivity is barely detectable.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Zircophyllite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Zircophyllite Localities Map
See where Zircophyllite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black-brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4 - 4.5
- Streak
- Light brown
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- K2NaFe2+7Zr2(Si4O12)2O2(OH)4F
- Elements
- F, Fe, H, K, Na, O, Si, Zr
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Zircophyllite FAQs
How do I identify Zircophyllite?
Zircophyllite can be identified by its hardness of 4 - 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Black-brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Zircophyllite?
Zircophyllite typically appears in Black-brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Zircophyllite?
Zircophyllite has a hardness of 4 - 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
