Zugshunstite-(Ce)
Zugshunstite-(Ce) is a rare hydrated cerium aluminum oxalate sulfate mineral with the chemical formula CeAl(C2O4)(SO4)2·12H2O. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and belongs to the Strunz class 10.AB.75 and the Dana class 50.1.9.1. This mineral exhibits a relatively low hardness and a moderate density, with a vitreous to pearly luster. It is typically colorless or white in appearance. Zugshunstite-(Ce) is part of a broader group of minerals characterized by complex anionic structures and is notable for its cerium content, making it a subject of interest in mineralogical and geochemical studies.
Composition
- OOxygen57.9%
- CeCerium21.1%
- SSulfur9.7%
- AlAluminium4.1%
- HHydrogen3.6%
- CCarbon3.6%
Overview
Zugshunstite-(Ce) is a rare hydrated cerium aluminum oxalate sulfate mineral with the chemical formula CeAl(C2O4)(SO4)2·12H2O. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and belongs to the Strunz class 10.AB.75 and the Dana class 50.1.9.1. This mineral exhibits a relatively low hardness and a moderate density, with a vitreous to pearly luster. It is typically colorless or white in appearance. Zugshunstite-(Ce) is part of a broader group of minerals characterized by complex anionic structures and is notable for its cerium content, making it a subject of interest in mineralogical and geochemical studies.
Etymology
Zugshunstite-(Ce) is named after the element cerium, which is a key component of its chemical composition. The name reflects the mineral's cerium content and its structural relationship to other members of the shunstite group.
How to recognize it
Zugshunstite-(Ce) can be identified through its low hardness, which is typically less than 4 on the Mohs scale, and its white to colorless color. It has a moderate density and exhibits a vitreous to pearly luster. The mineral can be distinguished from similar species by its chemical composition, particularly the presence of cerium. Its color and luster are key visual indicators, but due to its rarity, it is often confused with other hydrated sulfate minerals without chemical analysis.
Trivia
Zugshunstite-(Ce) is notable for its unique chemical composition, which includes cerium, an element not commonly found in mineral structures. It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system, which is less common than isometric or hexagonal systems. Additionally, its complex formula, containing both oxalate and sulfate groups, makes it an unusual and chemically intriguing mineral.