Beershevaite
Chemical formula: CaFe<sup>3+</sup><sub>3</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub>O
Beershevaite is an extremely rare calcium iron phosphate, forming microscopic, reddish-brown spherulites in the Hatrurim Formation in Israel.
Description
## Characteristics Beershevaite is a phosphate mineral, occurring as microscopic, spherical aggregates (spherulites) with a diameter not exceeding 0.1 mm. It has a characteristic reddish-brown color. It is a mineral typical of a specific pyrometamorphic environment, where it forms at extremely high temperatures. ## Colors and Varieties This mineral is known exclusively in one color: reddish-brown. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name Beershevaite was officially recognized as a new mineral by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2021 (IMA 2021-094). Its name comes from the city of Beer Sheva (Beersheba) in Israel, near which its only known occurrence, the Hatrurim Formation in the Negev Desert, is located. ## Applications Due to its extreme rarity and microscopic size, beershevaite has no practical applications. It is solely an object of scientific and collecting interest within systematic collections.
Diagnostic features
## Identification Identification of beershevaite is impossible without advanced research equipment. Recognition is based on chemical composition analysis (EDS/WDS) and structural studies (XRD). A visual feature that may suggest its presence is reddish-brown microspherulites in the specific pyrometamorphic rocks of the Hatrurim Formation. ## Distinction from Similar Minerals Visually, it can be confused with other small, reddish-brown minerals found in the same environment, such as hematite or maghemite. Definitive distinction is only possible based on chemical analysis. ## Crystal Forms Beershevaite exclusively forms aggregates in the form of spherulites – spherical aggregates with a radial internal structure. Individual, well-formed crystals are not observed.
Geological environment
## Genesis This mineral forms under pyrometamorphic conditions – a natural process of transformation of sedimentary rocks (marls, limestones) under the influence of very high temperatures resulting from the spontaneous combustion of underground organic matter deposits. Beershevaite crystallizes in the products of these processes, referred to as paralavas or clinkers. ## Mineral Associations Beershevaite co-occurs with other minerals typical of the Hatrurim Formation, such as hematite, maghemite, and other rare and often unnamed calcium and iron phosphates and silicates. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of beershevaite in the world is its type locality – the Hatrurim Formation in the Negev Desert, Israel.
Rarity
Extremely rare
Collector aspects
## Quality Criteria The collector's value of beershevaite specimens depends on the abundance of microscopic spherulites on the rock matrix and their good development. Specimens where the spherulites are clearly visible and undamaged are highly valued. Co-occurrence with other rare minerals from this locality is also of great importance. ## Popular Localities The most highly prized specimens come from the mineral's discovery site – the Hatrurim Formation in Israel, which is the only known source of this mineral.
Care and storage
## Cleaning Beershevaite specimens should not be wet cleaned. Due to their microscopic nature and potential reactivity, the only permissible method for dust removal is gentle blowing with compressed air from a safe distance. ## What to Avoid Contact with water, acids, and any chemical agents that could damage the mineral must be absolutely avoided. Specimens are sensitive to shock and ultrasound. They should not be heated or exposed to prolonged moisture. ## Storage Specimens containing beershevaite should be stored in specialized, tightly sealed micromount boxes that protect them from dust, moisture, and mechanical damage.