Kidodite

Chemical formula: BaMg₂Fe₃+₁₆O₂₇

An extremely rare oxide belonging to the hexaferrite group, discovered in pyrometamorphic rocks of the Hatrurim Formation in Israel.

## Characteristics Kidodite is a very rare oxide mineral, being a complex oxide of barium, magnesium, and iron. It belongs to the hexaferrite group. It occurs as microscopic crystals dispersed in a fine-grained matrix rock, making it invisible to the naked eye. ## Physical properties Due to the microscopic size of the crystals and its recent discovery, macroscopic determination of kidodite's physical properties is difficult. As a member of the hexaferrite group, it is characterized by a high iron content, which affects its optical properties under a microscope as well as its high density. ## History and name The mineral was discovered on Mount Ye'elim in the Hatrurim Basin, located in the Southern District of Israel. This area, also known as the Hatrurim Formation (Mottled Zone), is famous in the scientific world for the occurrence of unique pyrometamorphic minerals that form as a result of natural hydrocarbon fires.

Properties

Crystal system: Hexagonal

Diagnostic features

## Identification Macroscopic identification of kidodite in the field or in a collection is impossible due to its microscopic size. Reliable identification requires advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microprobe analysis. ## Distinguishing from similar minerals It requires distinction from other hexaferrites and iron oxides occurring in the Hatrurim Formation, such as barioferrite or magnesioferrite. This is possible only through detailed chemical and structural analysis under laboratory conditions. ## Crystal habits Kidodite crystallizes in the hexagonal system. It forms microscopic, tabular or platy crystals that are closely intergrown with other minerals within the pyrometamorphic rock.

Geological environment

## Genesis Kidodite is a pyrometamorphic mineral. It forms under specific conditions of very high temperatures and low pressures. This environment is typical of natural combustion zones of bituminous rocks, where thermal processes transform original sediments into complex mineral assemblages. ## Mineral associations It occurs in rocks of the Hatrurim Formation, usually in close association with other rare high-temperature minerals, including complex oxides, ferrites, and calcium silicates characteristic of this environment. ## Localities The only confirmed locality (locus typicus) is Mount Ye'elim in the Hatrurim Basin, located in the Southern District of Israel.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality criteria Kidodite lacks the aesthetic qualities typical of display minerals. Its collector value relies entirely on its extreme rarity and unique formation environment. Specimens are typically small matrix fragments in which the presence of the mineral has been confirmed by analytical testing. ## Popular localities Mount Ye'elim in Israel is the sole source of specimens for systematic mineral collectors and those specializing in rare mineral species and pyrometamorphic minerals.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Specimens containing kidodite are usually fragile pyrometamorphic rocks. Mechanical cleaning, ultrasonic cleaners, and strong water jets must be strictly avoided. Only gentle dusting of the surface with a soft brush is permissible. ## What to avoid Avoid contact with any chemicals, especially acids, which can react violently with calcium carbonates and calcium silicates co-occurring in rocks of the Hatrurim Formation. These rocks must be strictly protected from moisture. ## Storage Specimens are best stored in a dry environment, in sealed plastic boxes (micromount type) with a desiccant, such as silica gel. This protects the host rock from weathering and disintegration.

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External references

https://www.mindat.org/min-498761.html