Králíkite

Chemical formula: BaCl<sub>2</sub>·2H<sub>2</sub>O

Králíkite is not a recognized mineral; the given chemical formula corresponds to a synthetic chemical compound.

## Characteristics Králíkite is not a mineral approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA), and this name does not appear in official databases. The chemical formula BaCl₂·2H₂O corresponds to a synthetic substance known as barium chloride dihydrate. This substance, produced industrially, forms colorless, transparent crystals that are water-soluble and toxic. Its natural occurrence is unknown, which is a necessary condition for a substance to be recognized as a mineral. The only known natural barium chloride is chlorobarite with the formula BaCl₂, which is an anhydrous mineral. However, it is extremely rare and occurs exclusively in volcanic exhalations (fumaroles). Since Králíkite is not a naturally occurring mineral, further sections (properties, care, occurrence) are not applicable.

Properties

Luster
Vitreous to Pearly
Streak
White
Density
3.1
Cleavage
Perfect on {001}
Transparency
Transparent to translucent
Crystal system
Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification As a synthetic substance, králíkite is identified using laboratory methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) or qualitative chemical analysis. Synthetic crystals are colorless, white, or transparent. ## Differentiation from similar minerals Comparison with minerals is not applicable, as it is not a natural substance. In the laboratory, it is distinguished from other soluble salts based on characteristic chemical reactions, e.g., the flame test (colors the flame green) and reaction with a sulfate solution, which precipitates a white, insoluble barium sulfate (BaSO₄) precipitate. ## Crystal forms Synthetic BaCl₂·2H₂O crystals crystallize in the monoclinic system, most often forming flat, tabular forms, often with a rhombic outline.

Geological environment

## Genesis Králíkite is not a mineral recognized by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) and does not occur in the natural environment. The formula BaCl₂·2H₂O corresponds to a synthetic compound - barium chloride dihydrate. It is formed by crystallization from aqueous solutions under laboratory or industrial conditions. ## Mineral associations None, as it does not form natural mineral parageneses. ## Localities No natural occurrences. The product is commercially available as a chemical reagent.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality criteria This substance is not of interest to mineral collectors. Any aesthetic qualities may be found in well-formed, large crystals obtained under laboratory conditions, which may be of interest in collections dedicated to synthetic crystals. ## Market prices Not applicable in the context of mineral collecting. Barium chloride is a commonly available and inexpensive chemical reagent. ## Popular localities None. All specimens originate from chemical synthesis.

Care and storage

## Cleaning The compound is water-soluble, so it must not be wet cleaned. Dust should be removed with a soft brush or compressed air. ## What to avoid Barium compounds are toxic. Direct skin contact, inhalation of dust, and absolutely ingestion should be avoided. The substance should be protected from moisture, which can lead to its dissolution, and from high temperatures, which cause the loss of crystallization water (dehydration). ## Storage Barium chloride dihydrate crystals should be stored in a tightly sealed container, in a dry place, away from children and animals. The container must be clearly labeled as a toxic substance.

Sources

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