Koksharovite
Koksharovite is a rare phosphate mineral with the chemical formula calcium magnesium iron vanadate, CaMg2Fe^3⁺4(VO4)6. It crystallizes in the triclinic system and belongs to the phosphate mineral class. This mineral exhibits a Mohs hardness of 4.5, a relatively low density, and a vitreous luster. Its color is typically brown to reddish-brown. Koksharovite is a complex vanadate mineral, and its composition reflects the presence of both magnesium and iron in its structure. It is part of the broader group of phosphates, vanadates, and arsenates.
Composition
- OOxygen46.0%
- VVanadium36.6%
- FeIron6.7%
- MgMagnesium5.8%
- CaCalcium4.8%
Overview
Koksharovite is a rare phosphate mineral with the chemical formula calcium magnesium iron vanadate, CaMg2Fe^3⁺4(VO4)6. It crystallizes in the triclinic system and belongs to the phosphate mineral class. This mineral exhibits a Mohs hardness of 4.5, a relatively low density, and a vitreous luster. Its color is typically brown to reddish-brown. Koksharovite is a complex vanadate mineral, and its composition reflects the presence of both magnesium and iron in its structure. It is part of the broader group of phosphates, vanadates, and arsenates.
Etymology
Koksharovite is named after Nikolay Koksharov, in recognition of his contributions to mineralogy. The mineral was approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA).
How to recognize it
Koksharovite can be identified by its Mohs hardness of 4.5, which is relatively low for a phosphate mineral. It typically exhibits a brown to reddish-brown color and a vitreous luster. The mineral has a low density, and its streak can be used to distinguish it from similar minerals. Due to its rarity, it is often confused with other vanadate or phosphate minerals, but its specific chemical composition and triclinic crystal system aid in accurate identification.
Trivia
Koksharovite is notable for its complex chemical composition, which includes both magnesium and iron in a vanadate structure. Its triclinic-pedial space group is uncommon and adds to its mineralogical interest. The mineral is named after a notable figure in mineralogy, which is a common practice for rare species.