Chinnerite

Chemical formula: [Mg(H<sub>2</sub>O)<sub>6</sub>]Na(H<sub>2</sub>O)<sub>2</sub>Al<sub>3</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>2</sub>F<sub>6</sub>

Chinneryite is an extremely rare, hydrated aluminum, sodium, and magnesium phosphate, forming microscopic, colorless crystals in the form of needles and lamellae.

## Characteristics Chinneryite is a mineral from the phosphate group, chemically classified as a hydrated aluminum, sodium, and magnesium phosphate. It occurs as extremely small, colorless crystals, not exceeding 0.2 mm in length. It forms aggregates in the shape of rosettes, acicular clusters, or thin, platy lamellae. Due to the microscopic size of the crystals, its visual features are only discernible under high magnification. ## Physical properties Chinneryite crystals exhibit a vitreous luster. They are transparent and colorless. The hardness and density of the mineral have not been precisely measured due to the size and rarity of the samples. The calculated density is 2.22 g/cm³. ## History and name The mineral was approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2008 under the number IMA2008-043. Its name honors David Chinnery (born 1970), a Canadian mineral collector from Nova Scotia, who discovered the first samples of this mineral. It was described by a team of researchers, including Andrew C. Roberts.

Properties

Luster
Vitreous
Streak
White
Density
2.22
Cleavage
Good on {100}
Transparency
Transparent
Crystal system
Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of chinneryite is impossible without advanced laboratory techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and chemical analysis (EDS/WDS). In collector conditions, identification relies on trust in a label from a reputable source, confirming scientific analysis. The characteristic morphology of acicular or platy crystals in association with other rare phosphates from the type locality can be an indication. ## Distinguishing from similar minerals Chinneryite can be visually indistinguishable from many other microscopic, colorless secondary minerals, such as wardite, crandallite, or other rare phosphates. Definitive differentiation requires specialized instrumental analysis. ## Crystal forms Chinneryite crystallizes as elongated, acicular crystals or flattened, platy lamellae. These crystals often form radial aggregates or small, rosette-like clusters.

Geological environment

## Genesis Chinneryite is a secondary mineral that forms in hydrothermal alteration zones in polymetallic deposits. In the only known locality, it formed in voids within quartz-siderite veins, cutting sedimentary rocks (siltstones). Its formation is a result of the action of solutions rich in phosphorus, fluorine, sodium, and magnesium on earlier minerals. ## Mineral associations This mineral coexists with other rare phosphates. In the type locality, it was found in association with minerals such as: wardite, fluorite, quartz, siderite, goethite, strengite, rockbridgeite, childrenite, eosphorite, fluorapatite, and the newly discovered mineral from the same location - gayite. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of chinneryite in the world is the Cross-cut quarry, in the Rapid Creek area, Yukon Territory, Canada. This is the type locality for this mineral.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality criteria Due to its extreme rarity and microscopic size, every analytically confirmed chinneryite specimen is extremely valuable for specialized collectors of systematic minerals and "micromount" type. The most highly prized samples are those where the crystals, despite their small size, are well-formed, create rich aggregates, and are clearly visible against the matrix rock. Association with other rare minerals from this locality is also important.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Due to its extreme rarity and microscopic nature, chinneryite specimens should not be cleaned by any mechanical or chemical means. Any attempt at cleaning risks irreversible damage to the delicate crystals. ## What to avoid Avoid any contact with water, chemicals, ultrasound, and sudden temperature changes. The mineral is likely sensitive to dehydration. It should be protected from dust and vibrations. ## Storage Specimens should only be stored in specialized, sealed "micromount" containers, protecting them from mechanical damage, dust, and humidity changes. Display is only possible under a microscope.

Sources

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