Northupite
A variety of Minerals
What is Northupite?
Northupite is an uncommon evaporite mineral, with the chemical formula Na3Mg(CO3)2Cl. It occurs as colourless to dark grey or brown octahedral crystals and as globular masses. In synthetic material it forms a series with tychite (Na6Mg2(CO3)4SO4). It was discovered in 1895 at Searles Lake, San Bernardino County, California by C. H. Northup (born 1861) from San Jose, California, for whom Northupite is named. It occurs associated with tychite, pirssonite at Searles Lake and with shortite, trona, pirssonite, gaylussite, labuntsovite, searlesite, norsethite, loughlinite, pyrite and quartz in the Green River Formation of Wyoming.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Northupite 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.
Northupite Localities Map
See where Northupite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, pale yellow, grey, brown; colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5 - 4
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Na3Mg(CO3)2Cl
- Elements
- C, Cl, Mg, Na, O
Identify Northupite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Northupite FAQs
How do I identify Northupite?
Northupite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Northupite?
Northupite typically appears in Colourless, pale yellow, grey, brown; colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Northupite?
Northupite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
