Yafsoanite
Yafsoanite is a rare mineral with the chemical formula calcium tellurite zinc oxide, Ca3Te^6⁺2(ZnO4)3. It crystallizes in the cubic crystal system and is classified under the Strunz system as 4.CC.25 and under the Dana system as 7.2.14.1. This mineral is notable for its cubic symmetry and its composition, which includes tellurium in a high oxidation state. Its physical properties include a moderate hardness and a density typical of complex oxide minerals. It exhibits a luster that is vitreous to submetallic and is generally found in a range of colors from gray to black. Yafsoanite belongs to the broader group of oxide minerals.
Composition
- ZnZinc30.8%
- OOxygen30.2%
- TeTellurium20.1%
- CaCalcium18.9%
Overview
Yafsoanite is a rare mineral with the chemical formula calcium tellurite zinc oxide, Ca3Te^6⁺2(ZnO4)3. It crystallizes in the cubic crystal system and is classified under the Strunz system as 4.CC.25 and under the Dana system as 7.2.14.1. This mineral is notable for its cubic symmetry and its composition, which includes tellurium in a high oxidation state. Its physical properties include a moderate hardness and a density typical of complex oxide minerals. It exhibits a luster that is vitreous to submetallic and is generally found in a range of colors from gray to black. Yafsoanite belongs to the broader group of oxide minerals.
Etymology
The name Yafsoanite is derived from an acronym, though the specific meaning of the acronym is not provided in the available facts.
How to recognize it
Yafsoanite can be identified by its cubic crystal system and its chemical composition, which includes tellurium in a high oxidation state. It has a moderate hardness on the Mohs scale, though the exact value is not specified. Its color ranges from gray to black, and it has a vitreous to submetallic luster. The mineral can be distinguished from similar species by its unique chemical composition and crystal structure.
Trivia
Yafsoanite is notable for its cubic crystal system, which is relatively uncommon among oxide minerals. Its chemical formula includes tellurium in a rare high oxidation state of +6, which is chemically unusual. Additionally, the mineral's name is derived from an acronym, though the acronym's meaning is not disclosed in the available facts.