Szklaryite

Chemical formula: &#₉₇₂₃;Al₆BAs³⁺₃O₁₅

Szklaryite is an extremely rare aluminum arsenite-borate, discovered in Poland in the pegmatite of the Szklary mine in Lower Silesia.

## Characteristics Szklaryite is a mineral with a unique chemical composition, belonging to the borate group. It forms very fine, hexagonal crystals not exceeding 0.3 mm in size, which usually occur as radial or acicular aggregates. Due to its size, the visual characteristics of individual crystals are difficult to observe without the use of specialized equipment, such as a scanning electron microscope (SEM). ## Physical properties Szklaryite crystals exhibit a vitreous luster. The hardness and density of the mineral have not been precisely measured due to the small size and rarity of samples. The density was calculated based on the chemical formula and unit cell parameters and is 3.83 g/cm³. The mineral is transparent to translucent. ## Colors and varieties Szklaryite is colorless. No colored or commercial varieties have been distinguished. ## History and name The mineral was officially recognized by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2012 (IMA2012-051). Its name comes from its discovery locality – the "Szklary" nickel mine near Ząbkowice Śląskie in Lower Silesia, Poland. It was described by a Polish team of mineralogists: Adam Pieczka, Bożena Gołębiowska, Eligiusz Szełęg, Adam Włodek, Jaroslav Pršek, and Jan Rylka. ## Uses Szklaryite has no industrial application. Its significance is purely scientific and collectible, as a unique mineral typical of its locality in Poland.

Properties

Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Density: 3.71
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Uneven
Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of szklaryite is impossible without advanced laboratory techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), or electron microprobe chemical analysis (EDS/WDS). In collector conditions, identification relies on trust in the label and origin from a confirmed locality. ## Distinguishing from similar minerals It can be confused with other small, acicular secondary minerals found in oxidation zones, such as some arsenates or sulfates. Definitive differentiation requires specialized analytical studies. ## Crystal forms Szklaryite forms columnar or acicular crystals with a hexagonal cross-section, terminated by a hexagonal pyramid. It most often occurs in the form of small, radial aggregates.

Geological environment

## Genesis Szklaryite forms as a secondary mineral in highly weathered boron-rich pegmatites that cut serpentinites. It is a product of low-temperature hydrothermal processes occurring in the oxidation zone of arsenic ores. ## Mineral associations This mineral co-occurs with other arsenites and arsenates, such as diadochite, pitticite, jarosite, goethite, as well as with quartz, chrysoprase, opal, niobiophilite-(Mn), and other rare minerals from the manganocolumbite group. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of szklaryite in the world is its type locality – the dumps of the former nickel, chrysoprase, and opal mine in Szklary near Ząbkowice Śląskie in Lower Silesia, Poland.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality criteria The quality of a szklaryite specimen primarily depends on the richness and visibility of the crystalline aggregates on the rock matrix. The most valued samples are those where the radial clusters are clearly formed and contrast with the substrate. Due to the microscopic nature of the mineral, its correct analytical identification is crucial. ## Popular localities The only source of specimens is the mine in Szklary, Poland. Collectible material is extremely difficult to acquire and appears on the market very rarely, mainly in specialized circles.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Due to the extreme rarity and small size of crystals embedded in the matrix, mechanical cleaning is highly inadvisable. Specimens should be protected from dust, and any dirt should only be removed with compressed air from a safe distance. ## What to avoid Avoid contact with all chemicals, acids, and detergents. Do not subject the specimen to ultrasonic cleaning. Protect from high temperatures and humidity. ## Storage Szklaryite specimens should be stored in stable conditions, preferably in closed, padded "micromount" boxes, which protect them from mechanical damage, dust, and sudden changes in humidity. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight.