Nickolayite

Chemical formula: FeMoP

Nickolayite is an extremely rare iron and molybdenum phosphide, discovered in Jordan, occurring as microscopic, metallic grains.

## Characteristics Nickolayite is a mineral with a metallic appearance, occurring as very small, irregular grains or inclusions within other minerals. Its typical size does not exceed 20 micrometers, making it impossible to observe with the naked eye. In reflected light (under a microscope), it is light gray to grayish-white and exhibits weak pleochroism in shades of gray. ## Physical Properties Due to the microscopic size of the grains, most physical properties, such as hardness, luster, or transparency, have not been precisely determined. The mineral's density has been calculated based on its chemical composition and crystal structure and is 7.82 g/cm³. It exhibits a strong metallic luster. ## Colors and Varieties This mineral is opaque and has a uniform, light gray to grayish-white color. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name Nickolayite was officially recognized by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2016. Its name honors the Russian geologist and meteoriticist, Nikolay Ivanovich Kokscharov (1818–1892 or 1893). The discovery was made based on material collected from the Daba-Siwaqa complex in Jordan. ## Uses Nickolayite has no industrial or commercial applications. Its significance is purely scientific, limited to mineralogical and geochemical research.

Properties

Luster
Metallic
Density
7.819
Transparency
Opaque
Crystal system
Orthorhombic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of nickolayite is only possible using advanced laboratory techniques, such as reflected light microscopy and chemical analysis using an electron microprobe (EDS/WDS). Its characteristic chemical composition (FeMoP) is a key diagnostic feature. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals Under the microscope, it can be confused with other metallic phosphides or sulfides. Definitive differentiation requires chemical composition analysis. Co-occurrence with other rare minerals from the florenskyite group in a specific geological environment is an important clue. ## Crystal Forms Nickolayite forms exclusively anhedral (irregular) grains of microscopic size, typically not exceeding 20 µm. No well-formed crystals have been observed.

Geological environment

## Genesis Nickolayite forms under specific geological conditions, in pyrometamorphic rocks resulting from the combustion of natural bitumen deposits. High temperatures and reducing conditions lead to the crystallization of rare mineral phases, including metal phosphides. ## Mineral Associations This mineral co-occurs with other rare minerals discovered in the same locality, primarily murashkoite, florenskyite, as well as graphite, moissanite, and other phosphides. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of nickolayite in the world is its type locality – the Daba-Siwaqa geological complex in Jordan. This area is known for the presence of many unique minerals formed during pyrometamorphic processes.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria From a collector's perspective, nickolayite is not available on the market. Its value is purely scientific. Any potential research specimens would be evaluated based on the abundance and size of the microscopic grains and the quality of associated minerals. Confirmation of the mineral's presence through analysis is absolutely crucial.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Specimens containing nickolayite should only be cleaned mechanically, using a soft brush or compressed air, to remove dust. Due to the microscopic nature of the mineral, any invasive cleaning method is inadvisable. ## What to Avoid Avoid contact with chemicals, acids, and detergents, which could damage both nickolayite itself and its associated minerals. Do not heat the specimen or subject it to ultrasound. ## Storage Specimens containing nickolayite are best stored under stable conditions, in closed boxes or display cases, to protect them from dust and mechanical damage. Due to its rarity, every specimen has scientific value and requires special care.

External references

Sources

Read more