Kayupovaite

Chemical formula: Na₂Mn₂+₁₀[(Si₁₄Al₂)O₃₈(OH)₈]·₇H₂O

Kayupovite is an extremely rare sodium-manganese silicate with a platy structure, discovered in manganese deposits in Kazakhstan.

## Characteristics Kayupovite is a complex layered silicate of sodium and manganese. It forms bladed, foliated, or scaly aggregates, up to 1 cm in size, which are composed of very fine, platy crystals. The mineral is brown to reddish-brown in color and is translucent. ## Physical Properties Its hardness has not been precisely determined. The calculated density is 2.83 g/cm³. It exhibits a vitreous luster and perfect, unidirectional cleavage, which accounts for its platy appearance. It is a brittle mineral. ## Colors and Varieties The mineral occurs in shades of brown and reddish-brown. No color varieties or commercial varieties are known. ## History and Name The mineral is named in honor of Dr. Railya Asgatovna Kayupova (born 1935), a Kazakh geologist and specialist in manganese deposits in Kazakhstan. It was officially approved as a new mineral species by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2014. The type locality, where it was discovered, is the Ushkatyn-III deposit in Kazakhstan. ## Applications Due to its extreme rarity, kayupovite has no industrial applications. It is solely an object of scientific interest and a valuable acquisition for specialized collectors of rare minerals.

Properties

Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Light brown
Density: 2.83
Cleavage: Perfect on {001}
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Kayupovite can be identified by its characteristic platy or foliated habit, brown color, vitreous luster, and perfect cleavage. A key diagnostic feature is its occurrence in a specific geological environment – in manganese-rich quartzites, in association with other manganese minerals. However, definitive identification requires advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD). ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other platy brown minerals, such as some micas (e.g., biotite) or other rare manganese silicates with which it co-occurs (e.g., caryopilite, friedelite). It is distinguished from mica by its geological context and harder streak. Certain distinction from co-occurring manganese silicates is possible almost exclusively by chemical or structural analysis. ## Crystal Forms This mineral forms aggregates with a platy, foliated, or scaly structure. Well-formed, single crystals are not observed.

Geological environment

## Genesis Kayupovite forms as a result of regional metamorphism of sedimentary manganese deposits. It occurs in manganese-rich quartzites that have undergone alteration under greenschist facies conditions. ## Mineral Associations This mineral occurs in association with numerous manganese minerals and silicates. It most commonly co-occurs with quartz, braunite, johannsenite, bustamite, rhodonite, spessartine, tephroite, rhodochrosite, as well as rarer minerals such as friedelite, caryopilite, and pyrophanite. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of kayupovite in the world is its type locality – the Ushkatyn-III manganese deposit, located in the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria As a "micromount" status mineral, every specimen is valuable to specialized collectors. The value is primarily determined by the richness and size of kayupovite aggregates on the rock matrix. An additional advantage is the presence of well-formed crystals of associated minerals that create an aesthetic composition. ## Popular Localities The only source of specimens is the Ushkatyn-III deposit in Kazakhstan. Material from this locality is extremely difficult to obtain on the collector's market.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Kayupovite specimens are very delicate and brittle due to their platy structure and perfect cleavage. Dry cleaning is recommended, using a soft brush or compressed air from a safe distance. Avoid washing in water and using ultrasonic cleaners, which could damage the aggregates. ## What to Avoid The mineral should be protected from impacts, scratching, and vibrations. Avoid contact with all chemicals, acids, and detergents. As a hydrated mineral, it may be sensitive to high temperatures and prolonged exposure to intense light, which can lead to dehydration and changes in its properties. ## Storage It is recommended to store specimens in separate, padded collector boxes to prevent mechanical damage. They should be kept away from dust and moisture, in stable temperature conditions.

Sources

IMA Mineral List (CNMNC)