Kamiokite
A variety of Minerals
What is Kamiokite?
Kamiokite is an iron-molybdenum oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe2Mo3O8. The name kamiokite is derived from the locality, the Kamioka mine in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, where this mineral was first discovered in 1975. Kamiokite is a hexagonal system with equal axes a1, a2, a3. These three axes of the kamiokite crystal are uniformly separated by 120°. Kamiokite is an anisotropic mineral, meaning that light travels through the mineral in different directions and velocities. Kamiokite is strongly pleochroic and is also birefringent. Kamiokite can be found as inclusions in domeykite, algodonite, and magnetite. Kamiokite is associated with copper arsenides found in Michigan's Mohawk and Ahmeek copper mines. Although rare, kamiokite is predominantly found in mining environments and can indicate the presence of other minerals of interest, such as copper in the case of the Mohawk and Ahmeek mines. It is speculated that kamiokite can enhance the concentration of the copper it is hosted in. There are no known health risks associated with this mineral.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Kamiokite 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.
Kamiokite Localities Map
See where Kamiokite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black, grey with olive tint in reflected light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Density
- 6.02 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Fe2Mo3O8
- Elements
- Fe, Mo, O
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Kamiokite FAQs
How do I identify Kamiokite?
Kamiokite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Kamiokite?
Kamiokite typically appears in Black, grey with olive tint in reflected light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Kamiokite?
Kamiokite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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