Zabuyelite

A variety of Minerals

Zabuyelite specimen

What is Zabuyelite?

Zabuyelite is the natural mineral form of lithium carbonate, with a formula Li2CO3. It was discovered in 1987 at Lake Zabuye, Tibet, after which it is named. It forms colorless vitreous monoclinic crystals. It occurs as inclusions within halite in lithium rich evaporites and as solid phase in fluid inclusions in the mineral spodumene. Associated minerals include halite, gaylussite and northupite in the Tibet locality. In addition to the Tibetan salt lake it has been reported from Bikita and Kamativi in Zimbabwe, from Kings Mountain, Cleveland County, North Carolina, US and the Tanco pegmatite, Bernic Lake, Manitoba, Canada.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Zabuyelite 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Zabuyelite Localities Map

See where Zabuyelite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Colourless
Hardness (Mohs)
3
Density
2.096 g/cm³

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Li2CO3
Elements
C, Li, O
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Zabuyelite FAQs

How do I identify Zabuyelite?

Zabuyelite can be identified by its hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Zabuyelite?

Zabuyelite typically appears in Colourless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Zabuyelite?

Zabuyelite has a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

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