Refikite

Chemical formula: C₂₀H₃₄O₂

A historical name for fossilized resin found in lignite deposits, currently not recognized as a distinct mineral species.

## Characteristics Refikite is a historical, now discredited, name for fossilized resin, which is actually a variety of retenite – a mineraloid from the group of organic substances. It is not a mineral in the strict sense of the word, as it lacks an ordered crystalline structure. It occurs in irregular, botryoidal or nodular masses, highly fractured and brittle. Its appearance is typical of resins – it is vitreous, translucent, and resembles solidified tree sap. ## Physical Properties As an organic substance, refikite is very soft, with a Mohs hardness of only 1-2, meaning it can be scratched with a fingernail. It has a very low density, about 1.04 g/cm³, making it exceptionally light to the touch. It is characterized by a greasy or resinous luster, typical of resins, and a conchoidal fracture. It is brittle and easily breaks. ## Colors and Varieties Refikite occurs in shades from yellowish and honey-colored, through reddish-brown, to dark brown. It is usually translucent, though it can also be almost opaque. No distinct varieties are recognized, and the name "refikite" itself is treated as a synonym for retenite or a general term for fossil resins associated with lignite. ## History and Name The name was given in 1853 by the Austrian mineralogist Josef Johann Rumpf. He honored Refik Bey, the then Turkish Director of Mining. Type specimens came from the lignite mine near Ugljevik in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Further research showed that this substance is chemically and physically identical to previously described fossil resins, such as retenite, and consequently, the name refikite fell out of use in formal mineralogy and is now considered historical.

Properties

Mohs hardness: 1-2
Luster: Resinous
Streak: White
Density: 1.04
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Conchoidal
Transparency: Transparent to translucent

Diagnostic features

## Identification Refikite (retenite) can be identified by its resinous appearance, very low hardness (1-2 on the Mohs scale), and low density (it is very light). Its conchoidal fracture and brittleness are also characteristic. A key feature is its occurrence – almost exclusively in lignite deposits. When heated or rubbed, it emits a characteristic, resinous odor. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other fossil resins, such as amber or copal. It differs from amber by its generally lower hardness and other physical properties (e.g., it does not electrify as easily by rubbing). Copal is a subfossil (younger) resin and is often more viscous or softer, reacting to contact with alcohol. Precise differentiation from other forms of retenite is impossible without advanced chemical analysis. ## Crystal Forms As an amorphous substance, refikite does not form crystals. It occurs as irregular lumps, nodules, and masses with rounded shapes, often filling fractures in lignite.

Geological environment

## Genesis Refikite is an organic mineraloid. It formed as a result of the fossilization (diagenesis) of conifer resins that grew in swamps and forests during the Neogene period. The resin that exuded from the trees was buried along with plant remains, and then, under anaerobic conditions, pressure, and temperature, transformed into lignite. Refikite is one of the by-products of this process, preserved as a hard, fossilized resin. ## Mineral Associations The associated mineral is almost exclusively lignite. Other sedimentary minerals, such as clays or sandstones, forming interbeds in coal seams, may also be present in its vicinity. ## Localities The historical type locality from which the original refikite specimens originate is the lignite mine in Ugljevik, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Similar fossil resins (retenites) are found in many lignite deposits worldwide, but the name "refikite" is strictly associated with this one location.

Rarity

Very rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria As a historical and discredited taxon, refikite is primarily valuable to collectors specializing in mineral systematics, specimens from historical localities (so-called "TL - type locality"), or organic mineraloids. The most prized specimens are those with original, old labels confirming their origin from Ugljevik. The size and purity of the resin lump are of secondary importance, although larger, homogeneous fragments are more desirable. ## Popular Localities The only locality of historical and collecting significance for refikite is its type locality – Ugljevik in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Specimens from this location are extremely difficult to acquire today.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Refikite specimens should only be dry-cleaned, using a soft brush to remove dust. As a last resort, a cloth very lightly dampened with distilled water can be used, immediately drying the specimen. Avoid any detergents and chemicals. ## What to Avoid Refikite is very sensitive to external factors. It is absolutely essential to avoid contact with alcohol, solvents, and other chemicals that can damage or dissolve it. It is flammable and heat-sensitive – it must not be heated or exposed to prolonged sunlight, which can cause cracking and discoloration. Due to its brittleness and softness, it is susceptible to scratches and mechanical damage. ## Storage It is recommended to store specimens in separate, padded boxes, away from harder minerals. They should be protected from dust, sunlight, and sudden temperature changes. It is not suitable for display in sunny locations or near heat sources.

Sources

IMA Mineral List (CNMNC)