Novikovite

Chemical formula: (N<sup>3-</sup>H<sub>4</sub>)<sub>4</sub>Mo<sup>6+</sup><sub>2</sub>Mo<sup>5+</sup><sub>2</sub>O<sub>8</sub>(S<sup>6+</sup>O<sub>4</sub>)<sub>5</sub>

Novikovite is an extremely rare, unstable ammonium-molybdenum sulfate, discovered in deposits from a spoil heap fire in the Czech Republic.

## Characteristics Novikovite is a secondary mineral, occurring as very small, tabular crystals with dimensions not exceeding 0.2 mm. It forms aggregates and coatings on rocks. Due to its nature, it is an unstable mineral under ambient conditions, which makes it an object of primarily scientific interest. ## Physical properties Novikovite crystals exhibit a luster described as vitreous to resinous. They are transparent to translucent. Hardness and density have not been precisely measured due to the small size and instability of the samples. ## Colors and varieties This mineral is characterized by a dark blue color and leaves a pale blue streak. No varieties are known. ## History and name Novikovite was first described in 2022 by a team of mineralogists (Pekov et al.) based on material collected from the Kateřina mine dump in Radvanice (Czech Republic). The mineral is named in honor of Igor Viktorovich Novikov (1961–2018), a Russian mineralogist and collector specializing in minerals from the North Caucasus region. ## Applications Novikovite has no practical or commercial applications. Its significance is purely scientific and collector-oriented, as an example of a rare and unusual chemical compound occurring in nature.

Properties

Luster
Vitreous to Resinous
Streak
Pale blue
Cleavage
Perfect on {100}
Transparency
Transparent to translucent
Crystal system
Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of novikovite is possible only through advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and spectroscopy. In field conditions or in a typical collection, identification is impossible. Its dark blue color and occurrence in the specific environment of coal spoil heap fires are a certain indication. ## Distinguishing from similar minerals It can be confused with other rare, blue secondary sulfates that form under similar conditions. Definitive distinction requires specialized chemical and crystallographic analysis. ## Crystal forms Novikovite forms very small, thin, tabular crystals, which most often occur as aggregates, coatings, and crusts on rock surfaces.

Geological environment

## Genesis Novikovite is a mineral of fumarolic genesis. It forms as a result of reactions of gases released during slow, subsurface combustion of coal spoil heaps (so-called spoil heap fires). It crystallizes from hot gases (at a temperature of approx. 150°C) in sublimation zones. ## Mineral associations It co-occurs with other rare secondary minerals formed in the same environment, such as adranite-(NH₄), boussingaultite, mascagnite, sal ammoniac, and native sulfur. ## Localities The only confirmed locality of novikovite in the world is its type locality – the burning spoil heap of the Kateřina mine in Radvanice, Hradec Králové Region, Czech Republic.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality criteria Due to its extreme rarity and microscopic nature, the only criterion for collectible value is the confirmed existence of the mineral itself on a fragment of the host rock. Crystal size or specimen "aesthetics" do not apply in this case. Specimens have purely scientific value and are for the most specialized collectors of rare minerals. ## Popular localities The only source of specimens is the type locality in the Czech Republic.

Care and storage

## Cleaning The mineral is extremely sensitive and should not be cleaned in any way. Any contact with water, solvents, or even a strong air stream can destroy it. ## What to avoid Contact with water and moisture, which lead to its rapid decomposition, must be strictly avoided. It is also sensitive to temperature changes and direct light. It should not be touched. ## Storage Novikovite specimens require storage in hermetically sealed containers, preferably under controlled, low humidity conditions. Exposure is highly inadvisable due to the mineral's instability.

Sources

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