Вестник Санкт-Петербургского университета. Науки о Земле, 2022
* Работа выполнена при поддержке Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authorities (Tanzania), Российского... more * Работа выполнена при поддержке Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authorities (Tanzania), Российского фонда фундаментальных исследований (грант 18-05-00835) и The Natural History Museum (London). Исследования проведены с использованием оборудования ресурсных центров Научного парка СПбГУ «Геомодель» и «Рентгенодифракционные методы исследования».
Introduction: Three unusual carbonaceous chondrites – Yamato 82162, Yamato 86720, and Belgica 790... more Introduction: Three unusual carbonaceous chondrites – Yamato 82162, Yamato 86720, and Belgica 7904 were studied by a consortium in 1992 [1]. Along with several meteorites found since then (e.g. Yamato 86789, Yamato 86029, Yamato 980115, Dhofar 1988 and Dhofar 2066), these aqueously altered and dehydrated meteorites have bulk oxygen isotope compositions heavier than any other carbonaceous chondrite group (typical δO ~22 ‰ [2]) and an unusual mineralogy [3]. Although they experienced later thermal metamorphism, this cannot explain their distinct compositions [4]. Thus, while they are often linked to the CI or CM chondrites, it has been suggested they represent a new group of meteorites, the CYs [1, 4]. These meteorites are of particular interest as their extremely dark colour may suggest a relationship to the Hayabusa2 target Ryugu [5]. Here, we have studied the mineralogy, geochemistry and petrology of two of these meteorites, Yamato 980115 (Y-980115) and Yamato 82162 (Y-82162). Meth...
Bridgesite-(Ce), (IMA2019-034), was discovered at Tynebottom Mine, Cumbria, UK. It occurs as thin... more Bridgesite-(Ce), (IMA2019-034), was discovered at Tynebottom Mine, Cumbria, UK. It occurs as thin (1–2 μm) translucent blue crystals with a lath-like to acicular habit, aggregated into thin crusts and is associated mainly with brochantite, malachite, serpierite, devilline, gypsum, aragonite, jarosite, pyrite, lanthanite-(Ce) and undifferentiated iron oxyhydroxides, it is often intergrown with these other minerals. The lustre, hardness, cleavage and parting could not be determined, nor could density be measured due to crystal size. It has a pale blue streak and is brittle with a splintery fracture. Bridgesite-(Ce) is biaxial (–), shows no pleochroism and has refractive indices (white light): α = 1.526(2), β = 1.564(2), γ = 1.572(2) and 2V(calc) = 48.3°. The empirical formula calculated on the basis of 44 negative charges is Ca0.86REEΣ1.99Al0.07Cu5.95(SO4)3.99(SiO4)0.05(PO4)0.02(OH)11.52⋅8H2O. The idealised formula is CaCe2Cu6(SO4)4(OH)12⋅8H2O, requiring (wt.%): 3.91 CaO, 22.89 Ce2O3,...
Pegmatite fields within granite plutons are commonly considered to have formed from residual melt... more Pegmatite fields within granite plutons are commonly considered to have formed from residual melts of their host. This is not always true as demonstrated by the Tysfjord granite gneiss and its two groups of pegmatites. The Tysfjord granite gneiss, exposed in a tectonic window of the Caledonides of northern Norway, is part of the transscandinavian igneous belt (TIB) that includes several phases of granitic magmatism. In the northern Hamarøy area (Drag-Finnøy), where most rare-element pegmatites occur, Paleoproterozoic and metamorphosed Group 1 allanite–(Ce)–fluorite metapegmatites have similar bulk rock chemical composition as the TIB granite gneiss rocks, indicating that these pegmatites are residual melts. Group 1 metapegmatites, which are up to 400 m in size, are among the largest known intra-plutonic pegmatites with Nb–Y–F (NYF) signature. The formation of these unusually large granite-hosted NYF pegmatites may have been facilitated by the overall high F content of TIB granite gn...
IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 2020
Tourmaline from the St. Byron lobe of the Land’s End granite, SW England, was assessed by macrosc... more Tourmaline from the St. Byron lobe of the Land’s End granite, SW England, was assessed by macroscopic, optical and quantitative microanalytical methods. In total, seven types of tourmaline were distinguished. The seven types reflect different crystallisation environments and stages in the magmatic-hydrothermal transition. Types 1-3 are interpreted to represent a gradual transition from tourmaline crystallising from a silicate melt to precipitation from magmatic aqueous fluids. Types 5-7 crystallised at subsolidus conditions from a different fluid generation than types 1-3. These fluids may be magmatic or mixed with other fluids (e.g., meteoric or formation waters). The Sn-mineralisation in the area is mostly related to the latter fluid generation, and the mineralising potential is reflected by the tourmaline composition.
The occurrence and characterisation of a new member of the dundasite group are reported. Grgurici... more The occurrence and characterisation of a new member of the dundasite group are reported. Grguricite, ideally CaCr2(CO3)2(OH)4⋅4H2O, is the Cr analogue of alumohydrocalcite, CaAl2(CO3)2(OH)4⋅4H2O and occurs as lilac crusts of very fine-grained crystalline aggregates in the Pb–Ba–V mineralisation found at the Adeghoual Mine, Mibladen, Morocco (32°46′0″N, 4°37′59″W). The identification was based upon a close match with the powder X-ray diffraction data for alumohydrocalcite, the confirmation of anion components identified by Raman spectroscopy and the cation composition determined by electron-probe microanalysis. The empirical formula based upon 14 oxygen atoms per formula unit is Ca0.84Pb0.03Cr1.65Al0.39Mg0.02(CO3)2(OH)4⋅4H2O, with carbonate, hydroxyl and water contents set to those of the alumohydrocalcite stoichiometry. The fine-grained nature of the crystals (c. 0.5 μm × 0.1 μm × 5 μm) precluded a single-crystal X-ray study and both density and optical determinations. Grguricite is...
Modern seafloor hydrothermal systems provide important insights into the formation and discovery ... more Modern seafloor hydrothermal systems provide important insights into the formation and discovery of ancient volcanic-hosted massive sulfide (VHMS) deposits. In 2010, Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Expedition 331 drilled five sites in the Iheya North hydrothermal field in the middle Okinawa Trough, back-arc basin, Japan. Hydrothermal alteration and sulfide mineralization is hosted in a geologically complex, mixed sequence of coarse, pumiceous, volcaniclastic and fine hemipelagic sediments, overlying a dacitic to rhyolitic volcanic substrate. At site C0016, located adjacent to the foot of the actively venting North Big Chimney massive sulfide mound, massive sphalerite-(pyrite-chalcopyrite±galena)rich sulfides were intersected (to 30.2% Zn, 12.3% Pb, 2.68% Cu, 33.1 ppm Ag and 0.07 ppm Au) that strongly resemble the black ore of the Miocene-age Kuroko deposits of Japan. Sulfide mineralization shows clear evidence of formation through a combination of surface detrital and subsurface chemical processes, with at least some sphalerite precipitating into void space in the rock. Volcanic rocks beneath massive sulfides exhibit quartzmuscovite/illite and quartz-Mg-chlorite alteration reminiscent of VHMS proximal footwall alteration associated with Kuroko-type deposits, characterised by increasing MgO, Fe/Zn and Cu/Zn with depth. Recovered felsic footwall rocks are of FII to FIII affinity with welldeveloped negative Eu anomalies, consistent with VHMS-hosting felsic rocks in Phanerozoic ensialic arc/back-arc settings worldwide. Site C0013, ~100 m east of North Big Chimney, represents a likely location of recent high temperature discharge, preserved as surficial coarse-grained sulfidic sediments (43.2% Zn, 4.4% Pb, 5.4% Cu, 42 ppm Ag and 0.02 ppm Au) containing high concentrations of As, Cd, Mo, Sb, and W. Near surface hydrothermal alteration is dominated by kaolinite and muscovite with locally abundant native sulfur, indicative of acidic hydrothermal fluids. Alteration grades to Mg-chlorite dominated assemblages at depths of >5 mbsf (metres below sea floor). Late coarse-grained anhydrite veining overprints earlier alteration and is interpreted to have precipitated from down welling seawater as hydrothermal activity waned. At site C0014, ~350 m farther east, hydrothermal assemblages are characterized by illite/montmorillonite, with Mg-chlorite present at depths below ~30 mbsf. Recovered lithologies from distal, recharge site C0017 are unaltered, with low MgO, Fe 2 O 3 and base metal concentrations. Mineralization and alteration assemblages are consistent with the Iheya North system representing a modern analogue for Kuroko-type VHMS mineralization. Fluid flow is focussed laterally along pumiceous volcaniclastic strata (compartmentalized between Highlights
Rumseyite, ideally [Pb2OF]Cl, is a new mineral species which is associated with calcite, cerussit... more Rumseyite, ideally [Pb2OF]Cl, is a new mineral species which is associated with calcite, cerussite, diaboleite, hydrocerussite and undifferentiated Mn oxides in a small cavity in 'hydrocerussite' from a manganese pod at Merehead quarry, Somerset, England. Rumseyite is tetragonal, I4/mmm, a = 4.065(1), c = 12.631(7) Å, V = 208.7(1) Å3, Z = 2. The mineral is translucent pale orange-brown with a white streak and vitreous lustre. It is brittle with perfect {100} cleavage; Dcalc = 7.71 g cm–3 (for the ideal formula, [Pb2OF]Cl). The mean refractive index in air at 589 nm is 2.15. The six strongest reflections in the X-ray powder-diffraction pattern [dmeas in Å, (Irel), (hkl)] are as follows: 2.923(100)(013), 2.875(68)(110), 3.848(41)(011), 6.306(17)(002), 1.680(14)(123), 2.110(12)(006). The crystal structure of rumseyite is based on alternating [OFPb2] and Cl layers. Rumseyite is related to other layered Pb oxyhalides. Fluorine and oxygen are statistically disordered over one crys...
The southern part of the eastern branch of the East African Rift is characterized by extensive vo... more The southern part of the eastern branch of the East African Rift is characterized by extensive volcanic activity since the late Miocene. In the Crater Highlands, part of the North Tanzanian Divergence zone, effusive and pyroclastic rocks reflect nephelinitic and basaltic compositions that formed between 4·6 and 0·8 Ma. The former are best represented by the Sadiman volcano (4·6–4·0 Ma) and the latter occur in the giant Ngorongoro crater (2·3–2·0 Ma), the Lemagarut volcano (2·4–2·2 Ma) and as a small volcanic field in the Laetoli area (2·3 Ma), where basaltic rocks known as Ogol lavas were erupted through fissures and several cinder cones. Compositionally, they are alkaline basalts with 46·0–47·9 wt% SiO2, 3·0–4·3 wt% of Na2O + K2O, Mg# of 61 to 55, and high Cr and Ni content (450–975 and 165–222 ppm respectively). Detailed textural and compositional analysis of the major minerals (olivine, clinopyroxene, plagioclase and spinel-group minerals) reveals the heterogeneity of the rocks. ...
Utahite was first described in 1997 based mainly on powder X-ray diffraction data and electron mi... more Utahite was first described in 1997 based mainly on powder X-ray diffraction data and electron microprobe data. No crystal structure was reported. The re-examination of utahite using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electron microprobe analysis has shown that utahite contains essential Mg, along with Cu, Zn, Te, O and H. The missing MgO was originally attributed to additional H2O. The redefinition of utahite to MgCu2+4Zn2Te6+3O14(OH)4·6H2O from Cu2+5Zn3(Te6+O4)4(OH)8·7H2O has been accepted by the IMA–CNMNC, Proposal 20-C. Utahite is triclinic, crystallising in P1¯\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$\overline{1}$$\end{document} with the unit-cell parameters a = 5.6831(4) Å, b = 8.7793(6) Å, c = 9.9818(9) Å, α = 95.415(7)°, β = 104.129(7)°, γ = 90.098(6)° and V = 480.65(7) Å3, in good agree...
The attached document is the authors’ submitted version of these conference proceedings. You are ... more The attached document is the authors’ submitted version of these conference proceedings. You are advised to consult the publisher’s version if you wish to cite from it.
The crystal structure of montanite has been determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction on ... more The crystal structure of montanite has been determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction on a synthetic sample, supported by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), electron microprobe analysis (EPMA) and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). Montanite was first described in 1868 as Bi2TeO6·nH2O (n = 1 or 2). The determination of the crystal structure of synthetic montanite (refined composition Bi2TeO6·0.22H2O) has led to the reassignment of the formula to Bi2TeO6·nH2O where 0 ≤ n ≤ $${\raise0.5ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 2$} \kern-0.1em/\kern-0.15em \lower0.25ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 3$}}$$ 2 / 3 rather than the commonly reported Bi2TeO6·2H2O. This change has been accepted by the IMA–CNMNC, Proposal 22-A. The PXRD pattern simulated from the crystal structure of synthetic montanite is a satisfactory match for PXRD scans collected on both historical and recent natural samples, showing their equivalence. Two specimens attributed to the original discoverer of montanite (Frederick A. Genth) from the c...
The Mosonik volcano belongs to the Neogene-Resent volcanics of the Natron-Engaruka region of the ... more The Mosonik volcano belongs to the Neogene-Resent volcanics of the Natron-Engaruka region of the East African Rift system. It is one of several stratovolcanoes located on the northeastern tip of the Gregory Rift Valley. Mosonik is attributed as having the earliest phase of eruptions in this province (Dawson, 2008) and is dated in the range 3.18-1.28 Ma (Isaac & Curtis, 1974; Dawson, 2008). In 1961, it was mapped by the Tanganyika Geological Survey (Guest et al., 1961), with published data (Paslick et al., 1996) on the composition of minerals from basanites, nephelinites and phonolites. According to the results of this study the compositions of melilite and nephelinite, Zaitsev et al. (2015) have indicated that the Mosonik volcano could be a potential source for the Upper Laetolil Footprint Tuff 7. According to our data the main effusive rocks of Mosonic are various nephelinites and phonolites, quite often they contain xenoliths of plutonic rocks: melteigites, foyaites, ijolites, and rocks of the enclosing stratum (andesites). Carbonatites mostly occur as boulders of various sizes within creek deposits. Among nephelinites there are nephelinites s.s., phonolitic nephelinites, calcitephonolite nephelinites and melilite nephelinites. Microphenocrysts are represented by nepheline (45-60%), pyroxenes of diopside-hedenbergite solid solution, in some cases with aegirine edging (15-30%), apatite (3-10%) and titanite (3-10%). Calcite content reaches 10% within the calcite varieties of nephelinites; sanidine up to 10% in phonolitic nephelinites, which are strongly altered. Melilite nephelinites are also characterized by the following coposition: melilite (20%), perovskite (5%), sherlomite (3%). In rare cases within the nephelinites there are microphenocrysts of nepheline. Phonolites are represented by the following species: phonolites, sodalite phonolites and calcite phonolites. Phenocrysts are represented by nepheline (40-65%), pyroxenes of the diopside-hedenbergite series, rarely with aegirine edging (10-50%), sanidine (15-40%), Mg-Fe mica (0-5%), titanite (1-10%), and apatite (0-8%). In these rocks a large number of macrophenic crystals of nepheline, pyroxene, and often sanidine are observed. The work is supported by Russian Foundation of Basic Research (grant 18-05-00835) and
The occurrence, chemical composition and structural characterisation of the new mineral kernowite... more The occurrence, chemical composition and structural characterisation of the new mineral kernowite, ideally Cu2Fe(AsO4)(OH)4⋅4H2O, the Fe3+-analogue of liroconite, Cu2Al(AsO4)(OH)4⋅4H2O, are described. Kernowite (IMA2020-053) occurs on specimens probably sourced from the Wheal Gorland mine, St Day, Cornwall, UK, in the cavities of a quartz-gossan rich in undifferentiated micro-crystalline grey sulfides and poorly crystalline arsenic phases including both pharmacosiderite and olivenite-group minerals. The average composition of kernowite determined from several holotype fragments by electron microprobe analysis is Cu1.88(Fe0.79Al0.09)Σ0.88(As1.12O4)(OH)4⋅3.65H2O. The structure of kernowite has been determined in monoclinic space group I2/a (a non-standard setting of C2/c) by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) to R1 = 0.025, wR2 = 0.051 and Goodness-of-fit = 1.112. Unit-cell parameters from SCXRD are a = 12.9243(4) Å, b = 7.5401(3) Å, c = 10.0271(3) Å, β = 91.267(3)°, V = 976.91(...
For four decades fairbankite was reported to have the formula Pb2+(Te4+O3), but repeated attempts... more For four decades fairbankite was reported to have the formula Pb2+(Te4+O3), but repeated attempts to isolate fairbankite crystals for structural determination found only the visually similar cerussite and, more rarely, anglesite. The crystal-structure determination of fairbankite using single-crystal X-ray diffraction, supported by electron microprobe analysis and X-ray powder diffraction on the type specimen, has shown that fairbankite contains essential S, along with Pb, Te, and O. The chemical formula of fairbankite has been revised to Pb122+(Te4+O3)11(SO4). This change has been accepted by the IMA–CNMNC, Proposal 19-I. The crystal structure of fairbankite [space group P1 (no. 1); revised cell: a = 7.0205(3) Å, b = 10.6828(6) Å, c = 14.4916(8) Å, a = 75.161(5)°, b = 81.571(4)°, g = 83.744(4)°, V = 1036.35(9) Å3, and Z = 1] is the first atomic arrangement known to contain a Te34+O96− non-cyclic, finite building unit. Fairbankite has an average structure, formed from a 3D framework...
We report the discovery of a unique micrometeorite, containing an exotic Al-cu-fe alloy composed ... more We report the discovery of a unique micrometeorite, containing an exotic Al-cu-fe alloy composed of two intermixed phases: khatyrkite (CuAl 2) and stolperite (CuAl) and both containing minor Fe (<1.4 wt%). These phases are dendritic and rapidly co-crystallized at the binary system's peritectic (~550 °C). The host micrometeorite is an otherwise typical S-type micro-porphyritic cosmic spherule containing relict olivine (Fo76-90, Cr 2 o 3 : 0.01-0.56 wt%, MnO: 0.03-0.32 wt% and CaO: 0.09-0.22 wt%) and a cumulate layered texture. these properties suggest the micrometeorite is derived from a carbonaceous chondrite (best matched to a CO chondrite) and entered the atmosphere a high speed (~16 kms −1), implying an origin from a highly eccentric orbit. this particle represents the second independent discovery of naturally occurring intermetallic Al-cu-fe alloys and is thus similar to the previously reported Khatyrka meteorite-a cV chondrite containing near-identical alloys and the only known natural quasicrystals. We did not observe quasicrystalline phases in this micrometeorite, likely due to the low amounts of Fe in the alloy, insufficient to stabilize quasicrystals. Our discovery confirms the existence of Al-cu-fe intermetallic alloys on chondritic parent bodies. these unusual phases require a currently unexplained formation process, we tentatively suggest this could represent the delivery of exotic interstellar material to the inner solar system via impact. Micrometeorites are grains of cosmic dust <2 mm in diameter which originate from solar system small bodies (i.e. asteroids and comets 1). They are primarily derived from primitive early solar system remnants and are therefore commonly fragments of fine-grained matrix or anhydrous silicate-rich chondrules 2,3) as well as rare refractory CAIs and AOAs 4. They are classified into fine-and coarse-grained classes or a joint composite class depending on their texture which itself is a result of how the parent body fragmented 1,2. Upon liberation, individual cosmic dust grains rapidly spiral into the inner solar system, moving under non-gravitational Poynting-Robertson (P-R) drag 5. This is due to radiation pressure from the Sun exerting a force tangential to the dust grain's orbit, thereby resulting in a progressive loss in angular momentum 6. This delivery mechanism efficiently (<10 Ma) scavenges all mm-scale dust from the inner solar system, with removal occurring through capture by the terrestrial planets or by the Sun's photosphere 7. Thus, micrometeorites falling to Earth originate from a large and diverse population of solar system small bodies-all those which are actively producing dust. This is in contrast to meteorites, which instead derive principally from the Kirkwood Gaps in the asteroid belt and are delivered by orbital and secular resonances 8. Consequently, the study of micrometeorites provides a wide range of extraterrestrial material; much of which is directly related to existing meteorite groups 3,9 but which also contains new and exotic materials that would otherwise remain unsampled and unstudied. Examples of unique micrometeorites with unusual petrology include: a basaltic micrometeorite from an differentiated protoplanetary crust, but not originating from either Vesta, the Moon or Mars 10 , a microchondrule-bearing micrometeorite (potentially) derived from a cometary parent body 11 , refractory
The Skouries deposit is a platinum-group element (PGE) enriched Cu-Au porphyry system located in ... more The Skouries deposit is a platinum-group element (PGE) enriched Cu-Au porphyry system located in the Chalkidiki peninsula, Greece, with associated Ag, Bi and Te enrichment. The deposit is hosted by multiple porphyritic monzonite and syenite intrusions, which originated from a magma chamber at depth. An initial quartz monzonite porphyritic intrusion contains a quartz-magnetite ± chalcopyrite-pyrite vein stockwork with intense potassic alteration. The quartz monzonite intrusion is cross cut by a set of syenite and mafic porphyry dykes and quartz-chalcopyrite-bornite ± magnetite veins which host the majority of the Cu and Au mineralisation. Late stage quartz-pyrite veins, with associated phyllic alteration crosscut all previous vein generations. Electron microprobe and scanning electron microscopy shows that the PGE are hosted by platinum-group minerals (PGM) in the quartz-chalcopyrite-bornite ± magnetite veins and within potassic alteration assemblages. The PGE mineralisation in Skouries is therefore part of the main high temperature hypogene mineralisation event. Platinum-group minerals at Skouries include: sopcheite [Ag 4 Pd 3 Te 4 ], merenskyite [(Pd,Pt)(Te,Bi) 2 ] and kotulskite [Pd(Te,Bi)], with rare telargpalite [(Pd,Ag) 3 Te], isomertieite [Pd 11 Sb 2 As 2 ], naldrettite [Pd 2 Sb], testibiopalladite [PdTe(Sb,Te)] and sobolevskite [PdBi]. The most common platinum-group mineral is sopcheite. The PGM in Skouries are small, 52 µm 2 on average, and occur as spherical grains on the boundaries between sulphides and silicates, and as inclusions within hydrothermal quartz and sulphides. These observations support a "semi-metal collector model" whereby an immiscible BiTe melt acts as a collector for PGE and other precious metals in high temperature hydrothermal fluids. This mechanism would allow the formation of PGM in porphyries without Pt and Pd fluid saturation.
Вестник Санкт-Петербургского университета. Науки о Земле, 2022
* Работа выполнена при поддержке Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authorities (Tanzania), Российского... more * Работа выполнена при поддержке Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authorities (Tanzania), Российского фонда фундаментальных исследований (грант 18-05-00835) и The Natural History Museum (London). Исследования проведены с использованием оборудования ресурсных центров Научного парка СПбГУ «Геомодель» и «Рентгенодифракционные методы исследования».
Introduction: Three unusual carbonaceous chondrites – Yamato 82162, Yamato 86720, and Belgica 790... more Introduction: Three unusual carbonaceous chondrites – Yamato 82162, Yamato 86720, and Belgica 7904 were studied by a consortium in 1992 [1]. Along with several meteorites found since then (e.g. Yamato 86789, Yamato 86029, Yamato 980115, Dhofar 1988 and Dhofar 2066), these aqueously altered and dehydrated meteorites have bulk oxygen isotope compositions heavier than any other carbonaceous chondrite group (typical δO ~22 ‰ [2]) and an unusual mineralogy [3]. Although they experienced later thermal metamorphism, this cannot explain their distinct compositions [4]. Thus, while they are often linked to the CI or CM chondrites, it has been suggested they represent a new group of meteorites, the CYs [1, 4]. These meteorites are of particular interest as their extremely dark colour may suggest a relationship to the Hayabusa2 target Ryugu [5]. Here, we have studied the mineralogy, geochemistry and petrology of two of these meteorites, Yamato 980115 (Y-980115) and Yamato 82162 (Y-82162). Meth...
Bridgesite-(Ce), (IMA2019-034), was discovered at Tynebottom Mine, Cumbria, UK. It occurs as thin... more Bridgesite-(Ce), (IMA2019-034), was discovered at Tynebottom Mine, Cumbria, UK. It occurs as thin (1–2 μm) translucent blue crystals with a lath-like to acicular habit, aggregated into thin crusts and is associated mainly with brochantite, malachite, serpierite, devilline, gypsum, aragonite, jarosite, pyrite, lanthanite-(Ce) and undifferentiated iron oxyhydroxides, it is often intergrown with these other minerals. The lustre, hardness, cleavage and parting could not be determined, nor could density be measured due to crystal size. It has a pale blue streak and is brittle with a splintery fracture. Bridgesite-(Ce) is biaxial (–), shows no pleochroism and has refractive indices (white light): α = 1.526(2), β = 1.564(2), γ = 1.572(2) and 2V(calc) = 48.3°. The empirical formula calculated on the basis of 44 negative charges is Ca0.86REEΣ1.99Al0.07Cu5.95(SO4)3.99(SiO4)0.05(PO4)0.02(OH)11.52⋅8H2O. The idealised formula is CaCe2Cu6(SO4)4(OH)12⋅8H2O, requiring (wt.%): 3.91 CaO, 22.89 Ce2O3,...
Pegmatite fields within granite plutons are commonly considered to have formed from residual melt... more Pegmatite fields within granite plutons are commonly considered to have formed from residual melts of their host. This is not always true as demonstrated by the Tysfjord granite gneiss and its two groups of pegmatites. The Tysfjord granite gneiss, exposed in a tectonic window of the Caledonides of northern Norway, is part of the transscandinavian igneous belt (TIB) that includes several phases of granitic magmatism. In the northern Hamarøy area (Drag-Finnøy), where most rare-element pegmatites occur, Paleoproterozoic and metamorphosed Group 1 allanite–(Ce)–fluorite metapegmatites have similar bulk rock chemical composition as the TIB granite gneiss rocks, indicating that these pegmatites are residual melts. Group 1 metapegmatites, which are up to 400 m in size, are among the largest known intra-plutonic pegmatites with Nb–Y–F (NYF) signature. The formation of these unusually large granite-hosted NYF pegmatites may have been facilitated by the overall high F content of TIB granite gn...
IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 2020
Tourmaline from the St. Byron lobe of the Land’s End granite, SW England, was assessed by macrosc... more Tourmaline from the St. Byron lobe of the Land’s End granite, SW England, was assessed by macroscopic, optical and quantitative microanalytical methods. In total, seven types of tourmaline were distinguished. The seven types reflect different crystallisation environments and stages in the magmatic-hydrothermal transition. Types 1-3 are interpreted to represent a gradual transition from tourmaline crystallising from a silicate melt to precipitation from magmatic aqueous fluids. Types 5-7 crystallised at subsolidus conditions from a different fluid generation than types 1-3. These fluids may be magmatic or mixed with other fluids (e.g., meteoric or formation waters). The Sn-mineralisation in the area is mostly related to the latter fluid generation, and the mineralising potential is reflected by the tourmaline composition.
The occurrence and characterisation of a new member of the dundasite group are reported. Grgurici... more The occurrence and characterisation of a new member of the dundasite group are reported. Grguricite, ideally CaCr2(CO3)2(OH)4⋅4H2O, is the Cr analogue of alumohydrocalcite, CaAl2(CO3)2(OH)4⋅4H2O and occurs as lilac crusts of very fine-grained crystalline aggregates in the Pb–Ba–V mineralisation found at the Adeghoual Mine, Mibladen, Morocco (32°46′0″N, 4°37′59″W). The identification was based upon a close match with the powder X-ray diffraction data for alumohydrocalcite, the confirmation of anion components identified by Raman spectroscopy and the cation composition determined by electron-probe microanalysis. The empirical formula based upon 14 oxygen atoms per formula unit is Ca0.84Pb0.03Cr1.65Al0.39Mg0.02(CO3)2(OH)4⋅4H2O, with carbonate, hydroxyl and water contents set to those of the alumohydrocalcite stoichiometry. The fine-grained nature of the crystals (c. 0.5 μm × 0.1 μm × 5 μm) precluded a single-crystal X-ray study and both density and optical determinations. Grguricite is...
Modern seafloor hydrothermal systems provide important insights into the formation and discovery ... more Modern seafloor hydrothermal systems provide important insights into the formation and discovery of ancient volcanic-hosted massive sulfide (VHMS) deposits. In 2010, Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Expedition 331 drilled five sites in the Iheya North hydrothermal field in the middle Okinawa Trough, back-arc basin, Japan. Hydrothermal alteration and sulfide mineralization is hosted in a geologically complex, mixed sequence of coarse, pumiceous, volcaniclastic and fine hemipelagic sediments, overlying a dacitic to rhyolitic volcanic substrate. At site C0016, located adjacent to the foot of the actively venting North Big Chimney massive sulfide mound, massive sphalerite-(pyrite-chalcopyrite±galena)rich sulfides were intersected (to 30.2% Zn, 12.3% Pb, 2.68% Cu, 33.1 ppm Ag and 0.07 ppm Au) that strongly resemble the black ore of the Miocene-age Kuroko deposits of Japan. Sulfide mineralization shows clear evidence of formation through a combination of surface detrital and subsurface chemical processes, with at least some sphalerite precipitating into void space in the rock. Volcanic rocks beneath massive sulfides exhibit quartzmuscovite/illite and quartz-Mg-chlorite alteration reminiscent of VHMS proximal footwall alteration associated with Kuroko-type deposits, characterised by increasing MgO, Fe/Zn and Cu/Zn with depth. Recovered felsic footwall rocks are of FII to FIII affinity with welldeveloped negative Eu anomalies, consistent with VHMS-hosting felsic rocks in Phanerozoic ensialic arc/back-arc settings worldwide. Site C0013, ~100 m east of North Big Chimney, represents a likely location of recent high temperature discharge, preserved as surficial coarse-grained sulfidic sediments (43.2% Zn, 4.4% Pb, 5.4% Cu, 42 ppm Ag and 0.02 ppm Au) containing high concentrations of As, Cd, Mo, Sb, and W. Near surface hydrothermal alteration is dominated by kaolinite and muscovite with locally abundant native sulfur, indicative of acidic hydrothermal fluids. Alteration grades to Mg-chlorite dominated assemblages at depths of >5 mbsf (metres below sea floor). Late coarse-grained anhydrite veining overprints earlier alteration and is interpreted to have precipitated from down welling seawater as hydrothermal activity waned. At site C0014, ~350 m farther east, hydrothermal assemblages are characterized by illite/montmorillonite, with Mg-chlorite present at depths below ~30 mbsf. Recovered lithologies from distal, recharge site C0017 are unaltered, with low MgO, Fe 2 O 3 and base metal concentrations. Mineralization and alteration assemblages are consistent with the Iheya North system representing a modern analogue for Kuroko-type VHMS mineralization. Fluid flow is focussed laterally along pumiceous volcaniclastic strata (compartmentalized between Highlights
Rumseyite, ideally [Pb2OF]Cl, is a new mineral species which is associated with calcite, cerussit... more Rumseyite, ideally [Pb2OF]Cl, is a new mineral species which is associated with calcite, cerussite, diaboleite, hydrocerussite and undifferentiated Mn oxides in a small cavity in 'hydrocerussite' from a manganese pod at Merehead quarry, Somerset, England. Rumseyite is tetragonal, I4/mmm, a = 4.065(1), c = 12.631(7) Å, V = 208.7(1) Å3, Z = 2. The mineral is translucent pale orange-brown with a white streak and vitreous lustre. It is brittle with perfect {100} cleavage; Dcalc = 7.71 g cm–3 (for the ideal formula, [Pb2OF]Cl). The mean refractive index in air at 589 nm is 2.15. The six strongest reflections in the X-ray powder-diffraction pattern [dmeas in Å, (Irel), (hkl)] are as follows: 2.923(100)(013), 2.875(68)(110), 3.848(41)(011), 6.306(17)(002), 1.680(14)(123), 2.110(12)(006). The crystal structure of rumseyite is based on alternating [OFPb2] and Cl layers. Rumseyite is related to other layered Pb oxyhalides. Fluorine and oxygen are statistically disordered over one crys...
The southern part of the eastern branch of the East African Rift is characterized by extensive vo... more The southern part of the eastern branch of the East African Rift is characterized by extensive volcanic activity since the late Miocene. In the Crater Highlands, part of the North Tanzanian Divergence zone, effusive and pyroclastic rocks reflect nephelinitic and basaltic compositions that formed between 4·6 and 0·8 Ma. The former are best represented by the Sadiman volcano (4·6–4·0 Ma) and the latter occur in the giant Ngorongoro crater (2·3–2·0 Ma), the Lemagarut volcano (2·4–2·2 Ma) and as a small volcanic field in the Laetoli area (2·3 Ma), where basaltic rocks known as Ogol lavas were erupted through fissures and several cinder cones. Compositionally, they are alkaline basalts with 46·0–47·9 wt% SiO2, 3·0–4·3 wt% of Na2O + K2O, Mg# of 61 to 55, and high Cr and Ni content (450–975 and 165–222 ppm respectively). Detailed textural and compositional analysis of the major minerals (olivine, clinopyroxene, plagioclase and spinel-group minerals) reveals the heterogeneity of the rocks. ...
Utahite was first described in 1997 based mainly on powder X-ray diffraction data and electron mi... more Utahite was first described in 1997 based mainly on powder X-ray diffraction data and electron microprobe data. No crystal structure was reported. The re-examination of utahite using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electron microprobe analysis has shown that utahite contains essential Mg, along with Cu, Zn, Te, O and H. The missing MgO was originally attributed to additional H2O. The redefinition of utahite to MgCu2+4Zn2Te6+3O14(OH)4·6H2O from Cu2+5Zn3(Te6+O4)4(OH)8·7H2O has been accepted by the IMA–CNMNC, Proposal 20-C. Utahite is triclinic, crystallising in P1¯\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$\overline{1}$$\end{document} with the unit-cell parameters a = 5.6831(4) Å, b = 8.7793(6) Å, c = 9.9818(9) Å, α = 95.415(7)°, β = 104.129(7)°, γ = 90.098(6)° and V = 480.65(7) Å3, in good agree...
The attached document is the authors’ submitted version of these conference proceedings. You are ... more The attached document is the authors’ submitted version of these conference proceedings. You are advised to consult the publisher’s version if you wish to cite from it.
The crystal structure of montanite has been determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction on ... more The crystal structure of montanite has been determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction on a synthetic sample, supported by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), electron microprobe analysis (EPMA) and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). Montanite was first described in 1868 as Bi2TeO6·nH2O (n = 1 or 2). The determination of the crystal structure of synthetic montanite (refined composition Bi2TeO6·0.22H2O) has led to the reassignment of the formula to Bi2TeO6·nH2O where 0 ≤ n ≤ $${\raise0.5ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 2$} \kern-0.1em/\kern-0.15em \lower0.25ex\hbox{$\scriptstyle 3$}}$$ 2 / 3 rather than the commonly reported Bi2TeO6·2H2O. This change has been accepted by the IMA–CNMNC, Proposal 22-A. The PXRD pattern simulated from the crystal structure of synthetic montanite is a satisfactory match for PXRD scans collected on both historical and recent natural samples, showing their equivalence. Two specimens attributed to the original discoverer of montanite (Frederick A. Genth) from the c...
The Mosonik volcano belongs to the Neogene-Resent volcanics of the Natron-Engaruka region of the ... more The Mosonik volcano belongs to the Neogene-Resent volcanics of the Natron-Engaruka region of the East African Rift system. It is one of several stratovolcanoes located on the northeastern tip of the Gregory Rift Valley. Mosonik is attributed as having the earliest phase of eruptions in this province (Dawson, 2008) and is dated in the range 3.18-1.28 Ma (Isaac & Curtis, 1974; Dawson, 2008). In 1961, it was mapped by the Tanganyika Geological Survey (Guest et al., 1961), with published data (Paslick et al., 1996) on the composition of minerals from basanites, nephelinites and phonolites. According to the results of this study the compositions of melilite and nephelinite, Zaitsev et al. (2015) have indicated that the Mosonik volcano could be a potential source for the Upper Laetolil Footprint Tuff 7. According to our data the main effusive rocks of Mosonic are various nephelinites and phonolites, quite often they contain xenoliths of plutonic rocks: melteigites, foyaites, ijolites, and rocks of the enclosing stratum (andesites). Carbonatites mostly occur as boulders of various sizes within creek deposits. Among nephelinites there are nephelinites s.s., phonolitic nephelinites, calcitephonolite nephelinites and melilite nephelinites. Microphenocrysts are represented by nepheline (45-60%), pyroxenes of diopside-hedenbergite solid solution, in some cases with aegirine edging (15-30%), apatite (3-10%) and titanite (3-10%). Calcite content reaches 10% within the calcite varieties of nephelinites; sanidine up to 10% in phonolitic nephelinites, which are strongly altered. Melilite nephelinites are also characterized by the following coposition: melilite (20%), perovskite (5%), sherlomite (3%). In rare cases within the nephelinites there are microphenocrysts of nepheline. Phonolites are represented by the following species: phonolites, sodalite phonolites and calcite phonolites. Phenocrysts are represented by nepheline (40-65%), pyroxenes of the diopside-hedenbergite series, rarely with aegirine edging (10-50%), sanidine (15-40%), Mg-Fe mica (0-5%), titanite (1-10%), and apatite (0-8%). In these rocks a large number of macrophenic crystals of nepheline, pyroxene, and often sanidine are observed. The work is supported by Russian Foundation of Basic Research (grant 18-05-00835) and
The occurrence, chemical composition and structural characterisation of the new mineral kernowite... more The occurrence, chemical composition and structural characterisation of the new mineral kernowite, ideally Cu2Fe(AsO4)(OH)4⋅4H2O, the Fe3+-analogue of liroconite, Cu2Al(AsO4)(OH)4⋅4H2O, are described. Kernowite (IMA2020-053) occurs on specimens probably sourced from the Wheal Gorland mine, St Day, Cornwall, UK, in the cavities of a quartz-gossan rich in undifferentiated micro-crystalline grey sulfides and poorly crystalline arsenic phases including both pharmacosiderite and olivenite-group minerals. The average composition of kernowite determined from several holotype fragments by electron microprobe analysis is Cu1.88(Fe0.79Al0.09)Σ0.88(As1.12O4)(OH)4⋅3.65H2O. The structure of kernowite has been determined in monoclinic space group I2/a (a non-standard setting of C2/c) by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) to R1 = 0.025, wR2 = 0.051 and Goodness-of-fit = 1.112. Unit-cell parameters from SCXRD are a = 12.9243(4) Å, b = 7.5401(3) Å, c = 10.0271(3) Å, β = 91.267(3)°, V = 976.91(...
For four decades fairbankite was reported to have the formula Pb2+(Te4+O3), but repeated attempts... more For four decades fairbankite was reported to have the formula Pb2+(Te4+O3), but repeated attempts to isolate fairbankite crystals for structural determination found only the visually similar cerussite and, more rarely, anglesite. The crystal-structure determination of fairbankite using single-crystal X-ray diffraction, supported by electron microprobe analysis and X-ray powder diffraction on the type specimen, has shown that fairbankite contains essential S, along with Pb, Te, and O. The chemical formula of fairbankite has been revised to Pb122+(Te4+O3)11(SO4). This change has been accepted by the IMA–CNMNC, Proposal 19-I. The crystal structure of fairbankite [space group P1 (no. 1); revised cell: a = 7.0205(3) Å, b = 10.6828(6) Å, c = 14.4916(8) Å, a = 75.161(5)°, b = 81.571(4)°, g = 83.744(4)°, V = 1036.35(9) Å3, and Z = 1] is the first atomic arrangement known to contain a Te34+O96− non-cyclic, finite building unit. Fairbankite has an average structure, formed from a 3D framework...
We report the discovery of a unique micrometeorite, containing an exotic Al-cu-fe alloy composed ... more We report the discovery of a unique micrometeorite, containing an exotic Al-cu-fe alloy composed of two intermixed phases: khatyrkite (CuAl 2) and stolperite (CuAl) and both containing minor Fe (<1.4 wt%). These phases are dendritic and rapidly co-crystallized at the binary system's peritectic (~550 °C). The host micrometeorite is an otherwise typical S-type micro-porphyritic cosmic spherule containing relict olivine (Fo76-90, Cr 2 o 3 : 0.01-0.56 wt%, MnO: 0.03-0.32 wt% and CaO: 0.09-0.22 wt%) and a cumulate layered texture. these properties suggest the micrometeorite is derived from a carbonaceous chondrite (best matched to a CO chondrite) and entered the atmosphere a high speed (~16 kms −1), implying an origin from a highly eccentric orbit. this particle represents the second independent discovery of naturally occurring intermetallic Al-cu-fe alloys and is thus similar to the previously reported Khatyrka meteorite-a cV chondrite containing near-identical alloys and the only known natural quasicrystals. We did not observe quasicrystalline phases in this micrometeorite, likely due to the low amounts of Fe in the alloy, insufficient to stabilize quasicrystals. Our discovery confirms the existence of Al-cu-fe intermetallic alloys on chondritic parent bodies. these unusual phases require a currently unexplained formation process, we tentatively suggest this could represent the delivery of exotic interstellar material to the inner solar system via impact. Micrometeorites are grains of cosmic dust <2 mm in diameter which originate from solar system small bodies (i.e. asteroids and comets 1). They are primarily derived from primitive early solar system remnants and are therefore commonly fragments of fine-grained matrix or anhydrous silicate-rich chondrules 2,3) as well as rare refractory CAIs and AOAs 4. They are classified into fine-and coarse-grained classes or a joint composite class depending on their texture which itself is a result of how the parent body fragmented 1,2. Upon liberation, individual cosmic dust grains rapidly spiral into the inner solar system, moving under non-gravitational Poynting-Robertson (P-R) drag 5. This is due to radiation pressure from the Sun exerting a force tangential to the dust grain's orbit, thereby resulting in a progressive loss in angular momentum 6. This delivery mechanism efficiently (<10 Ma) scavenges all mm-scale dust from the inner solar system, with removal occurring through capture by the terrestrial planets or by the Sun's photosphere 7. Thus, micrometeorites falling to Earth originate from a large and diverse population of solar system small bodies-all those which are actively producing dust. This is in contrast to meteorites, which instead derive principally from the Kirkwood Gaps in the asteroid belt and are delivered by orbital and secular resonances 8. Consequently, the study of micrometeorites provides a wide range of extraterrestrial material; much of which is directly related to existing meteorite groups 3,9 but which also contains new and exotic materials that would otherwise remain unsampled and unstudied. Examples of unique micrometeorites with unusual petrology include: a basaltic micrometeorite from an differentiated protoplanetary crust, but not originating from either Vesta, the Moon or Mars 10 , a microchondrule-bearing micrometeorite (potentially) derived from a cometary parent body 11 , refractory
The Skouries deposit is a platinum-group element (PGE) enriched Cu-Au porphyry system located in ... more The Skouries deposit is a platinum-group element (PGE) enriched Cu-Au porphyry system located in the Chalkidiki peninsula, Greece, with associated Ag, Bi and Te enrichment. The deposit is hosted by multiple porphyritic monzonite and syenite intrusions, which originated from a magma chamber at depth. An initial quartz monzonite porphyritic intrusion contains a quartz-magnetite ± chalcopyrite-pyrite vein stockwork with intense potassic alteration. The quartz monzonite intrusion is cross cut by a set of syenite and mafic porphyry dykes and quartz-chalcopyrite-bornite ± magnetite veins which host the majority of the Cu and Au mineralisation. Late stage quartz-pyrite veins, with associated phyllic alteration crosscut all previous vein generations. Electron microprobe and scanning electron microscopy shows that the PGE are hosted by platinum-group minerals (PGM) in the quartz-chalcopyrite-bornite ± magnetite veins and within potassic alteration assemblages. The PGE mineralisation in Skouries is therefore part of the main high temperature hypogene mineralisation event. Platinum-group minerals at Skouries include: sopcheite [Ag 4 Pd 3 Te 4 ], merenskyite [(Pd,Pt)(Te,Bi) 2 ] and kotulskite [Pd(Te,Bi)], with rare telargpalite [(Pd,Ag) 3 Te], isomertieite [Pd 11 Sb 2 As 2 ], naldrettite [Pd 2 Sb], testibiopalladite [PdTe(Sb,Te)] and sobolevskite [PdBi]. The most common platinum-group mineral is sopcheite. The PGM in Skouries are small, 52 µm 2 on average, and occur as spherical grains on the boundaries between sulphides and silicates, and as inclusions within hydrothermal quartz and sulphides. These observations support a "semi-metal collector model" whereby an immiscible BiTe melt acts as a collector for PGE and other precious metals in high temperature hydrothermal fluids. This mechanism would allow the formation of PGM in porphyries without Pt and Pd fluid saturation.
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