Andreybulakhite

Chemical formula: Ni₂+((C₂)₆+O₄)·₂H₂O

Andreybulakhite is an extremely rare, newly discovered mineral from the oxalate group, forming microscopic, green crystals on a quartz matrix.

## Characteristics Andreybulakhite is a newly described, very rare mineral from the group of organic nickel oxalates. It occurs as microscopic, acicular or platy crystals, which form small, radial aggregates or scattered groups. Individual crystals rarely exceed 0.2 mm in length. Due to their size, visual features are only discernible under high magnification. ## Physical Properties Crystals are brittle and exhibit a vitreous luster. Hardness and density have not been precisely measured due to the small amount of available material. The mineral is transparent to translucent. ## Colors and Varieties Andreybulakhite is characterized by a vivid green color in various shades, from emerald green to apple green. It does not exhibit pleochroism. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral was officially approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2023 under number IMA2023-088. The name honors Prof. Andrey Glebovich Bulakh (1933–2020), a Russian mineralogist and specialist in pegmatite mineralogy from St. Petersburg University. It was discovered in material originating from a historic mine in the Schlema-Alberoda area in Germany.

Properties

Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Light green
Cleavage: Good on {100}
Fracture: Uneven
Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of the mineral is possible only using advanced analytical methods, such as Raman spectroscopy or electron microprobe chemical analysis (EDS). Visually, in the field or in a collection, it is impossible to distinguish from other secondary, green nickel minerals without specialized equipment. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other rare nickel oxalates, such as moolooite, or other secondary nickel minerals (e.g., annabergite). Definitive differentiation requires structural and chemical analysis. ## Crystal Forms It forms very small, acicular or platy crystals, usually grouped into radial or chaotic aggregates. Crystals are elongated along the [001] axis and flattened.

Geological environment

## Genesis Andreybulakhite is a secondary mineral that likely formed as a result of hydrothermal processes or weathering. Its exact genesis is still under investigation, but it is presumed to have formed under low-temperature conditions in the presence of solutions rich in nickel and oxalic acid, derived from the decomposition of organic matter. ## Mineral Associations It occurs in association with quartz, on which it forms coatings. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence (type locality) is historical material from mine dumps in the Schlema-Alberoda area, Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany. This is an area known for uranium-cobalt-nickel mineralization.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria As a "micromount" mineral, its value is primarily determined by the richness and aesthetics of the crystal aggregates on the quartz matrix. Specimens with well-formed, intensely green crystals, forming visually attractive groups, are highly prized. Due to its extreme rarity, every analytically confirmed specimen has high scientific and collector value.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Due to the extreme rarity, small size, and brittleness of the crystals, mechanical cleaning is absolutely inadvisable. Specimens should be protected from dust in sealed containers. ## What to Avoid Any chemicals, ultrasonics, and contact with water can irreversibly damage or destroy the delicate crystals. Avoid temperature changes and exposure to direct sunlight. ## Storage Andreybulakhite specimens should be stored exclusively in specialized, sealed "micromount" boxes, protecting them from dust, moisture, and mechanical damage. Every manipulation should be performed with the utmost care.

Sources

IMA Mineral List (CNMNC)