Shigaite
A variety of Wermlandite Group
What is Shigaite?
Shigaite is a rare mineral currently known from just a few localities in the world. It comes in a form of small, hexagonal crystals with sharp edges. It carries the name after the Shiga prefecture in Japan, where it was discovered in 1985. Shigaite is often associated with other minerals and regularly sought by gemstone collectors.
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Key Characteristics
Composition of Shigaite
Shigaite consists of oxycation sheets of [AlMn2(OH)6] intercalated with oxyanion sheets of [Na(H2O)6{H2O}6(SO4)2]. Linkage between the sheets and within the oxyanion sheet results largely through hydrogen bonding.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Deep yellow with black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
- Density
- 2.32 g/cm³
- Streak
- Very pale yellow to white
- Luster
- Vitreous, Dull
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mn6Al3(OH)18Na(H2O)62 · 6H2O
- Elements
- Al, H, Mn, Na, O, S
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