Baotite
A variety of Minerals
What is Baotite?
Baotite Ba4Ti4(Ti, Nb, Fe)4(Si4O12)O16Cl is a rare mineral recognized as having a unique four-fold silicate ring. Crystals are tetragonal, though commonly deformed to the extent of appearing monoclinic. Named for the locality of first discovery, Baotou, China, baotite has been found in hydrothermal veins and alkalic rocks in various locations around the world.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Baotite 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.
Baotite Localities Map
See where Baotite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Baotite
Simonov first determined the crystal structure of baotite in which (Ti, Nb, Fe)-octahedra share edges, forming chains and cross-linking at the corners forming a 4-fold screw axis in the (001); these columns are analogous to those in rutile. Four silicate tetrahedra share corners creating characteristic rings in the plane perpendicular to the c axis. The barium cation is between the rings and rutile columns, while chloride fills the void between each pair of rings. Chlorine's presence is not necessary for the structure to balance electrostatically.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Light Brown, Black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ba4Ti8Si4O28Cl
- Elements
- Ba, Cl, O, Si, Ti
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Baotite FAQs
How do I identify Baotite?
Baotite can be identified by its hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, Light Brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Baotite?
Baotite typically appears in Light Brown, Black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Baotite?
Baotite has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the composition of baotite of Baotite?
Simonov first determined the crystal structure of baotite in which (Ti, Nb, Fe)-octahedra share edges, forming chains and cross-linking at the corners forming a 4-fold screw axis in the (001); these columns are analogous to those in rutile. Four silicate tetrahedra share corners creating characteristic rings in the plane perpendicular to the c axis. The barium cation is between the rings and rutile columns, while chloride fills the void between each pair of rings. Chlorine's presence is not necessary for the structure to balance electrostatically.
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