Kainite
A variety of Minerals
What is Kainite?
Kainite (/ˈkaɪnaɪt/ or /ˈkeɪnaɪt/) (KMg(SO4)Cl·3H2O) is an evaporite mineral in the class of "Sulfates (selenates, etc.) with additional anions, with H2O" according to the Nickel–Strunz classification. It is a hydrated potassium-magnesium sulfate-chloride, naturally occurring in irregular granular masses or as crystalline coatings in cavities or fissures. This mineral is dull and soft, and is colored white, yellowish, grey, reddish, or blue to violet. Its name is derived from Greek καινος [kainos] ("(hitherto) unknown"), as it was the first mineral discovered that contained both sulfate and chloride as anions. Kainite forms monoclinic crystals.
Uses & Applications
Kainite is used as a source of potassium and magnesium compounds, as a fertilizer, and as gritting salt.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Kainite 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.
Kainite Localities Map
See where Kainite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Kainite
Kainite is of bitter taste and soluble in water. On recrystallization picromerite is deposited from the solution.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless; yellow, brownish, greyish-green, red, violet, blue; colourless in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 2.24 g/cm³
- Streak
- white
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- KMg(SO4)Cl · 3H2O
- Elements
- Cl, H, K, Mg, O, S
Also Known As
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Kainite FAQs
How do I identify Kainite?
Kainite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Colourless; yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Kainite?
Kainite typically appears in Colourless; yellow, brownish, greyish-green, red, violet, blue; colourless in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Kainite?
Kainite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the characteristics of kainite of Kainite?
Kainite is of bitter taste and soluble in water. On recrystallization picromerite is deposited from the solution.
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