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.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Chibaite 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.
Chibaite Localities Map
See where Chibaite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
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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Chibaite FAQs
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.
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