Mikenewite

Chemical formula: Mn²⁺(S⁴⁺O₃)·3H₂O

Mikenewite is a hydrated manganese sulfite, forming small, prismatic, yellowish crystals, discovered in the famous Ojuela mine in Mexico.

## Characteristics Mikenewite is a hydrated manganese sulfite. It occurs as very small, prismatic crystals, rarely exceeding 1 mm in length. It forms radial or chaotically arranged aggregates. Due to the small size of the crystals, its visual features are difficult to observe without magnification. ## Physical Properties This mineral is characterized by relatively low hardness, ranging from 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale. It is transparent and has a density of 2.48 g/cm³. It exhibits cleavage in one direction. ## Colors and Varieties When observed in transmitted light, it has a yellowish color. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral's name honors Michael "Mike" R. New (born 1950), an American mineral collector and philanthropist, for his contributions to the preservation of mineralogical specimens. Mikenewite was approved as a new mineral species by the IMA in 2022, and its discovery was made in the Ojuela mine in Mexico. ## Uses Due to its rarity and small crystal size, mikenewite is of scientific and collector interest only.

Properties

Mohs hardness
2.5-3
Streak
White
Density
2.48
Cleavage
{101}
Transparency
Transparent
Crystal system
Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of mikenewite is primarily based on its appearance – small, yellowish, prismatic crystals forming radial aggregates. Association with the locality (Ojuela mine) and co-occurring minerals is key. Final confirmation requires advanced analytical methods, such as Raman spectroscopy or X-ray diffraction. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other sulfites or secondary manganese minerals of similar habit. Distinguishing it with the naked eye is practically impossible and requires specialized research equipment. ## Crystal Forms It forms elongated, prismatic crystals, often grouped into radial or disordered aggregates. Crystals are usually very small, not exceeding 1 mm in length.

Geological environment

## Genesis It is a secondary mineral, formed in the oxidation zone of ore deposits. It originated from hydrothermal processes occurring after the formation of the main deposit. In its type locality, it was found in a vug within massive goethite ore. ## Mineral Associations It co-occurs with minerals such as goethite, ojuelaite, paradamite, and legrandite. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of mikenewite in the world is its type locality – the San Judas chimney in the Ojuela mine, in the municipality of Mapimí, Durango State, Mexico.

Rarity

Very rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria As a "micromount" mineral, its collector value depends on the richness and aesthetics of the crystal aggregates on the matrix. Specimens with well-formed, radial groups of transparent, yellowish crystals, contrasting with a dark goethite matrix, are most highly prized. Association with other rare minerals from this locality is also important. ## Popular Localities The only source of specimens is the Ojuela mine in Mexico, which is known for providing many rare and well-crystallized minerals.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Specimens should be cleaned very carefully, using compressed air to remove dust. Contact with water is not recommended due to the risk of dissolution or damage to delicate crystals. ## What to Avoid Avoid contact with all chemicals, acids, and water. The mineral is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. It should not be heated or exposed to direct sunlight. ## Storage It is recommended to store specimens in stable conditions, in closed, airtight containers (so-called "micromount boxes"), to protect them from dust, moisture, and mechanical damage.

External references

Sources

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