Belousovite

Chemical formula: KZn<sup>2+</sup>(S<sup>6+</sup>O<sub>4</sub>)Cl

Belousovite is a rare potassium zinc sulfate, discovered in volcanic products on Kamchatka, forming tiny, colorless crystals.

## Characteristics Belousovite is a mineral from the sulfate group, chemically defined as potassium zinc sulfate with chlorine. It occurs as very small, tabular or lath-like crystals, rarely exceeding 0.2 mm in length. It usually forms disordered aggregates or clusters. It is colorless and transparent, with a vitreous luster. ## Physical Properties The mineral is characterized by a hardness of approximately 2.5 on the Mohs scale. Its crystals are brittle. The density calculated from the formula and unit cell parameters is 3.29 g/cm³. ## Colors and Varieties Belousovite is a colorless mineral. No colored varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral was discovered in volcanic exhalation products (fumaroles) of the Tolbachik volcano on the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. It was approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2017. Its name honors Russian volcanologist Alexander F. Belousov (1950–2018) and his son, Igor A. Belousov (born 1979), for their contributions to the study of the Tolbachik volcano. ## Applications Due to its extreme rarity and microscopic crystal sizes, belousovite has no industrial applications. It is solely an object of scientific and collecting interest for specialized micromineral collectors.

Properties

Mohs hardness
2.5
Luster
Vitreous
Streak
White
Density
3.29
Cleavage
Perfect on {0001}
Fracture
Uneven
Transparency
Transparent
Crystal system
Trigonal

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of belousovite is impossible without advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and chemical analysis (EDS/WDS). Visually, it is a colorless, microscopic mineral with a vitreous luster, occurring in the specific environment of volcanic fumaroles. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals Based on appearance, it is practically impossible to distinguish from many other colorless sulfates and chlorides formed in fumaroles, such as langbeinite, arcanite, or halite. Certain identification requires specialized laboratory equipment. ## Crystal Forms It forms very small, thin, tabular crystals with a hexagonal outline, often elongated and lath-like. They occur as single, dispersed crystals or form disordered clusters and aggregates.

Geological environment

## Genesis Belousovite is a mineral of volcanic origin. It forms by sublimation from volcanic gases in high-temperature fumaroles (exhalations), where hot gases rich in sulfur, potassium, zinc, and chlorine react and crystallize on rock surfaces. ## Mineral Associations This mineral co-occurs with other sulfates and chlorides formed under similar conditions. It is most commonly associated with: langbeinite, arcanite, halite, sylvite, aphthitalite, anglesite, galena, cotunnite, chalcanthite, and tenorite. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of belousovite in the world is its type locality – the "Arsenatnaya" fumarole on the second slag cone of the Northern Breakthrough of the Great Fissure Eruption of Tolbachik volcano on Kamchatka, Russia.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria As a micromineral, belousovite is valued primarily for its analytically confirmed identity. Specimens with well-formed, even if microscopic, crystals with a distinct outline, set on a contrasting matrix, are most highly rated. The size of aggregates and the abundance of occurrence on the rock matrix also increase the specimen's value. ## Popular Localities The only source of belousovite specimens is its discovery site – Tolbachik volcano on Kamchatka. All specimens available on the collector's market originate from this single location.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Belousovite specimens are extremely delicate and sensitive. Mechanical cleaning is not recommended. If necessary, compressed air (from a safe distance) can be used to remove loose dust. Contact with water should be avoided, as the mineral is soluble in it. ## What to Avoid Contact with water, acids, and other chemicals must be strictly avoided. The mineral is hygroscopic and can be damaged by atmospheric moisture. It should be protected from high temperatures and sudden temperature changes. ## Storage Specimens should be stored in sealed, dry containers (e.g., "perky boxes") away from sources of moisture. It is best to place a desiccant (silica gel) in the container. Display should only take place under controlled conditions, away from direct sunlight.

Sources

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