Erikjonssonite

Chemical formula: (Pb²⁺₃₂O₂₁)[(V⁵⁺,Si,Mo⁶⁺,As⁵⁺)O₄]₄Cl₉

Erikjonssonite is an extremely rare lead mineral that forms unique, hexagonal crystals of an intense red color.

## Characteristics Erikjonssonite is a mineral from the group of lead oxides and chlorides, distinguished by its exceptionally complex chemical composition. It forms characteristic, hexagonal, tabular crystals that rarely exceed 0.2 mm in diameter. These crystals are usually transparent and have an intense, red or orange-red color. Due to its rarity and small size, it is a mineral of purely scientific and collectible significance. ## Physical Properties This mineral is characterized by a adamantine luster. Its Mohs hardness is estimated at about 2, making it very soft and delicate. The density is very high, approximately 7.55 g/cm³, which is typical for lead-rich minerals. ## Colors and Varieties Erikjonssonite occurs in shades from red to orange-red. No varieties are known. ## History and Name The mineral is named in honor of Erik Jonsson (born 1975), a Swedish chemist and mineral collector who significantly contributed to the understanding of the mineralogy of the Långban deposit in Sweden, from which many rare minerals originate. Erikjonssonite was officially approved as a new mineral by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2016. It was discovered in the dumps of the Kombat mine in Namibia. ## Uses Erikjonssonite has no industrial applications. It is solely an object of interest for scientists and specialized collectors of rare minerals.

Properties

Mohs hardness
2.5
Color
Orange-red
Luster
Adamantine
Streak
Light red
Density
7.967
Cleavage
(010)
Fracture
Irregular/Uneven
Transparency
Transparent
Crystal system
Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of erikjonssonite is based on its unique characteristics: intense red color, adamantine luster, hexagonal crystal shape, and very high density. The locality of occurrence – the Kombat mine in Namibia – is also key. Final identification requires advanced analytical methods, such as Raman spectroscopy or chemical analysis (EDS). ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other rare, red secondary minerals from the oxidation zones of ore deposits, such as some vanadates (e.g., vanadinite) or lead oxides. However, its specific hexagonal crystal form and unique chemical composition distinguish it. Unlike vanadinite, its crystals are usually tabular, not prismatic. ## Crystal Forms Erikjonssonite forms very small, thin, tabular crystals with a hexagonal outline. They occur as single, isolated crystals or small groups on the surface of the host rock.

Geological environment

## Genesis Erikjonssonite is a secondary mineral that formed as a result of low-temperature hydrothermal processes. It forms in the oxidation zones of polymetallic deposits, in this case, a manganese and iron deposit with sulfide mineralization (Cu-Pb-Ag). It likely formed from the reaction of solutions rich in vanadium, chlorine, and other elements with earlier lead minerals. ## Mineral Associations This mineral occurs in association with other rare secondary minerals, such as kombatite, saharaite, asisite, as well as calcite and hematite. It co-occurs on altered, manganese-rich host rock. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of erikjonssonite in the world is its type locality – the Kombat mine, in the Otjozondjupa district, Grootfontein region, Namibia. Specimens originate from mine dumps.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria The quality of erikjonssonite specimens is primarily assessed based on the size and development of the crystals. The most valued specimens are those with sharp, well-defined, hexagonal crystals of an intense red color. The contrast with the matrix rock and the presence of associated minerals that confirm its origin are also important. Due to the microscopic size of the crystals, their photogenicity under magnification is crucial. ## Popular Localities The only source of specimens is the Kombat mine in Namibia. All specimens available on the collector's market come from this single locality.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Erikjonssonite specimens, due to their extreme delicacy and small size, should generally not be mechanically cleaned. If absolutely necessary, compressed air (from a safe distance) can be used to remove loose dust particles. Contact with water and any chemicals should be avoided. ## What to Avoid Contact with acids and other chemicals that could damage it must be strictly avoided. The mineral is very soft (hardness ~2), so it is susceptible to scratches and mechanical damage. It should be protected from vibrations and impacts. ## Storage It is recommended to store specimens in specialized, sealed "micromount" boxes, which protect them from dust, moisture, and physical damage. Exposure should be away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

External references

Sources

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