Hydrokenoelsmoreite

Chemical formula: &#₉₇₂₃;₂W⁶⁺₂O₆(H₂O)

Hydrokenoelsmoreite is a rare tungsten oxide from the elsmoreite group, forming microscopic, regular crystals of varied colors.

## Characteristics Hydrokenoelsmoreite is a hydrated tungsten oxide belonging to the elsmoreite group. It occurs as very small, octahedral crystals, rarely exceeding 0.2 mm in size. It typically forms crusts or appears as single, scattered crystals on the surface of other minerals. Its crystals most often have the form of regular octahedra. ## Physical Properties The mineral is characterized by a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. It has a splintery fracture and a white streak. Due to the microscopic size of the crystals, many of its physical properties, such as luster or transparency, are difficult to determine precisely without specialized equipment. ## Colors and Varieties Hydrokenoelsmoreite can exhibit various colors, including white, yellowish, brownish, dark green, and even black. The diversity of colors likely results from the presence of impurities of other elements. No named varieties are distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral's name refers to its chemical composition and its relationship to other minerals in this group. The prefix "hydro" indicates the presence of water (H₂O) in its structure, "keno" refers to a vacancy (empty site) at the A position in the general formula of the group, and the term "elsmoreite" comes from the group's name, which in turn was named after its discovery locality – the Elsmore mine in Australia. It was formally described as a new mineral in 2005. ## Uses Due to its rarity and microscopic size, hydrokenoelsmoreite has no industrial applications. It is solely an object of scientific and collecting interest for specialists gathering rare minerals or microminerals.

Properties

Mohs hardness: 3
Streak: White
Density: 0
Fracture: Splintery
Crystal system: Isometric

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of hydrokenoelsmoreite requires specialized equipment. The primary step is observation under a stereoscopic microscope, which allows for discerning the characteristic shape of regular, octahedral crystals. Final confirmation of the mineral's identity is possible only through advanced analytical methods, such as Raman spectroscopy or electron microprobe chemical analysis (EDS/WDS). ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other minerals from the elsmoreite group, such as ferritungstite or raspite, which often co-occur in the same environments. Distinguishing them based on visual characteristics is practically impossible and requires chemical analysis to determine the dominant elements. ## Crystal Forms Hydrokenoelsmoreite crystals are very well-formed and have the shape of regular octahedra. They occur as single, overgrown crystals or form small, crystalline aggregates and crusts.

Geological environment

## Genesis Hydrokenoelsmoreite is a secondary mineral, forming in the oxidation (weathering) zones of tungsten deposits. It forms as a result of the alteration of primary tungsten minerals, such as wolframite or scheelite, in the presence of water. ## Mineral Associations It often co-occurs with other tungsten minerals, especially from the elsmoreite group, as well as with quartz, muscovite, topaz, cassiterite, scheelite, and wolframite. ## Localities The most important and type locality for this mineral is the Elsmore Tin Mine in New South Wales, Australia. It is a very rare mineral, known from only a few confirmed localities worldwide.

Rarity

Very rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria The collecting appeal of hydrokenoelsmoreite specimens depends on several factors. Most valued are specimens with well-formed, sharp crystals of a distinct, octahedral shape. An intense color (e.g., yellow or green), contrasting with the matrix, is also important. Crystal size, although always microscopic, matters – the larger, the more valuable the specimen. Rich aggregates and lack of damage also increase value. ## Popular Localities The only source of high-quality collector specimens is the type locality – the Elsmore mine in Australia. Specimens from this location are the standard for this mineral.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Specimens should be cleaned very carefully, using compressed air to remove dust. Due to the fragility and small size of the crystals, mechanical cleaning (brushes) and contact with water and chemicals are not recommended. ## What to Avoid Avoid contact with chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and sudden temperature changes. The crystals are very fragile and easily susceptible to mechanical damage. ## Storage Hydrokenoelsmoreite specimens, as microminerals, should be stored in specialized, sealed boxes (e.g., "micromount" type) that protect them from dust, shocks, and mechanical damage.