Rimkorolgite

Chemical formula: BaMg₅(PO₄)₄·8H₂O

Rimkorolgite is a rare hydrated barium and magnesium phosphate, forming tiny, colorless or white crystals and aggregates.

## Characteristics Rimkorolgite is a very rare mineral from the phosphate group. It occurs as very small, bladed or acicular crystals, rarely exceeding 1 mm in length. These crystals often form radial or tangled aggregates, as well as thin crusts and coatings. Due to the small size of the crystals, its visual features are difficult to observe without magnification. ## Physical Properties This mineral is characterized by a hardness of approximately 2.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft. It has a vitreous luster and is transparent to translucent. The calculated density is 2.81 g/cm³. ## Colors and Varieties Rimkorolgite is typically colorless or white. No colored or commercial varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral's name comes from its discovery location on the Kola Peninsula in Russia. It is an acronym from "Rim" (Russian: Рим, meaning Rome - in honor of the Institute of Mineralogy, Geochemistry and Crystal Chemistry of Rare Elements, whose logo refers to the Colosseum) and "kor" from the Kola Peninsula (Russian: Кольский полуостров). It was approved as a new mineral by the IMA in 1991. ## Uses Rimkorolgite has no industrial application. Its significance is purely scientific and collectible, as a very rare and unique mineralogical species.

Properties

Mohs hardness
3
Color
Yellow-brown, light pink, flesh-red to reddish brown
Luster
Vitreous to silky
Streak
White
Density
2.67
Cleavage
Perfect {001}
Fracture
Uneven
Transparency
Transparent,Translucent
Crystal system
Orthorhombic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Amateur identification of rimkorolgite is practically impossible. This mineral forms microscopic, colorless crystals in the form of blades or needles, often in radial aggregates. Definitive identification requires advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) or chemical analysis (EDS/WDS). ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with many other secondary phosphate minerals of similar appearance, such as brushite, newberyite, or schertelite, which also form colorless or white coatings and aggregates. Differentiation without specialized equipment is impossible. ## Crystal Forms Crystals are elongated and bladed along the [100] axis, reaching up to 1 mm in length. They typically form radial or tangled aggregates and thin coatings on other minerals.

Geological environment

## Genesis Rimkorolgite is a secondary mineral. It forms in low-temperature hydrothermal zones, in veins cutting apatite-magnetite deposits in alkaline rocks. It forms as a result of the alteration of earlier phosphate minerals. ## Mineral Associations This mineral coexists with minerals such as kovdorskite, bobierrite, juonniite, apatite, dolomite, magnetite, pyrite, and manasseite. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of rimkorolgite worldwide is its type locality – the Kovdor apatite-magnetite deposit in the Kovdor massif on the Kola Peninsula in Russia.

Rarity

Very rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria The quality of rimkorolgite specimens is primarily assessed based on the richness and abundance of crystals on the rock matrix. Due to the microscopic size of the crystals, single, well-formed needles or blades are not the main criterion. Specimens with visible, dense radial aggregates or coatings, preferably in association with other rare minerals from this locality, are most valued. ## Popular Localities The only source of specimens is the Kovdor mine in Russia. Specimens from this location are highly prized by collectors specializing in rare or systematic minerals.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Rimkorolgite specimens should be cleaned with the utmost care, using only a soft brush to remove dust. Due to its softness and delicacy, contact with water and any chemical agents should be avoided. ## What to Avoid Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, chemical agents, acids, and sudden temperature changes. The mineral is soft and brittle, susceptible to mechanical damage. ## Storage It is recommended to store specimens in stable conditions, in closed boxes or display cases, to protect them from dust, moisture, and physical damage. It is best stored in its original perky box.

External references

Sources

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