Olsenite

Chemical formula: KFe²⁺₄(PO₄)₃

Olsenite (KFe²⁺₄(PO₄)₃) is not a mineral recognized by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA), and there is no verified data for it.

Olsenite (KFe²⁺₄(PO₄)₃) is a potassium iron phosphate that was identified in the El Ali meteorite found in Somalia. This substance does not have the status of a formally approved mineral by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA), and its characteristics are based on preliminary studies of extraterrestrial material. All information about it should be treated as unconfirmed and provisional until full data are published and approved by the IMA. ## Characteristics Due to the lack of a formal description, the appearance and visual features of olsenite are unknown. The description is based solely on chemical and structural analysis of microscopic fragments within the meteorite. ## Physical properties The calculated density of the substance is 3.52 g/cm³. Other physical properties, such as hardness, luster, or transparency, have not been determined. ## History and name The name "olsenite" was used in the context of research on the El Ali meteorite, likely in honor of mineralogist Edward J. Olsen, curator of the Field Museum in Chicago, known for his meteorite research. However, this name is not officially recognized.

Properties

Density
3.52
Crystal system
Orthorhombic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of olsenite is possible only through advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray microanalysis (EDS), on microscopic samples originating from the El Ali meteorite. Visual identification is not possible.

Geological environment

## Genesis Olsenite was identified as a mineral phase within the El Ali iron meteorite (IAB group). It formed under extraterrestrial conditions, inside the meteorite's parent body. ## Mineral associations It was found in association with other meteoritic minerals, including the newly discovered elaliite and elkinstantonite. ## Localities The only known occurrence of this substance is the El Ali meteorite, found in the Hiiraan region of Somalia.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

Olsenite, as an unapproved mineral phase occurring only as microscopic inclusions in a single meteorite, is not of collector interest and is not available on the market.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Specimens containing this mineral should not be cleaned with water or solvents. Due to its occurrence in a meteoritic matrix, contact with moisture leads to iron oxidation and irreversible degradation of the specimen. Only gentle dry cleaning using a soft brush is permissible. ## What to avoid Moisture and any chemical agents must be strictly avoided. The mineral contains iron in the +2 oxidation state (Fe²⁺), which under Earth's atmospheric conditions is highly susceptible to oxidation. ## Storage Specimens should be stored in airtight containers in a controlled, dry environment. The use of desiccants (e.g., silica gel) or storage under an inert gas atmosphere is recommended, which prevents corrosion of both the mineral itself and the surrounding meteoritic iron.

External references

Sources

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