Zinnwaldite: Difference between revisions
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'''Zinnwaldite''' is a [[mica]] mineral belonging to the [[mica group]] of phyllosilicates. It is a complex [[lithium]]-[[iron]] [[aluminium]] [[silicate]] with the chemical formula KLiFe<sub>2</sub>Al(AlSi<sub>3</sub>)O<sub>10</sub>(F,OH)<sub>2</sub>. Zinnwaldite is named after the Zinnwald region in the [[Ore Mountains]] on the border between Germany and the Czech Republic, where it was first discovered. | '''Zinnwaldite''' is a [[mica]] mineral belonging to the [[mica group]] of phyllosilicates. It is a complex [[lithium]]-[[iron]] [[aluminium]] [[silicate]] with the chemical formula KLiFe<sub>2</sub>Al(AlSi<sub>3</sub>)O<sub>10</sub>(F,OH)<sub>2</sub>. Zinnwaldite is named after the Zinnwald region in the [[Ore Mountains]] on the border between Germany and the Czech Republic, where it was first discovered. | ||
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* [[Petalite]] | * [[Petalite]] | ||
* [[Greisen]] | * [[Greisen]] | ||
{{Mica group}} | {{Mica group}} | ||
{{Lithium minerals}} | {{Lithium minerals}} | ||
[[Category:Mica group]] | [[Category:Mica group]] | ||
[[Category:Lithium minerals]] | [[Category:Lithium minerals]] | ||
Revision as of 01:50, 24 December 2024
Zinnwaldite is a mica mineral belonging to the mica group of phyllosilicates. It is a complex lithium-iron aluminium silicate with the chemical formula KLiFe2Al(AlSi3)O10(F,OH)2. Zinnwaldite is named after the Zinnwald region in the Ore Mountains on the border between Germany and the Czech Republic, where it was first discovered.
Occurrence
Zinnwaldite is typically found in granite pegmatites and greisens, often associated with other lithium-bearing minerals such as spodumene, lepidolite, and petalite. It is commonly found in regions with significant tin and tungsten mineralization. Notable localities include the Zinnwald region, the Erzgebirge in Germany, and the Czech Republic.
Physical Properties
Zinnwaldite crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system and forms tabular, pseudohexagonal crystals. It exhibits perfect cleavage on the {001} plane, which is characteristic of micas. The mineral has a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4, making it relatively soft. Its specific gravity ranges from 2.9 to 3.2.
The color of zinnwaldite can vary from brown to yellow, green, or gray, and it has a vitreous to pearly luster. It is transparent to translucent and exhibits pleochroism, showing different colors when viewed from different angles.
Chemical Composition
Zinnwaldite is a complex silicate mineral with a layered structure typical of micas. Its chemical composition can be represented as KLiFe2Al(AlSi3)O10(F,OH)2. The presence of lithium and iron distinguishes it from other micas such as muscovite and biotite.
Uses
Zinnwaldite is primarily of interest to mineral collectors and researchers studying lithium-bearing minerals. It is not commonly used in industrial applications due to its rarity and the availability of other lithium sources.
