Udinaite

Chemical formula: NaMg₄(V₅+O₄)₃

Udyanite is a very rare sodium magnesium vanadate, discovered in products of volcanic activity in Kamchatka.

## Characteristics Udyanite is a mineral with an intense green color, forming aggregates of small, granular crystals. It typically occurs as aggregates up to 0.5 mm in size, filling small voids in basalts. Its crystals are too small to be observed with the naked eye, and their morphology is poorly visible even under a microscope. ## Physical Properties This mineral is characterized by a vitreous luster. It is transparent to translucent. Due to the small size of its crystals, many of its physical properties, such as hardness or density, have not been precisely measured, but only calculated based on crystallographic data. ## Colors and Varieties Udyanite occurs in one characteristic color – from light green to emerald green. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral's name comes from its discovery location – the Udina volcanic complex on the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. It was officially approved as a new mineral species by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2018 (IMA2018-038). The first description was made by Russian mineralogists, including Igor V. Pekov. ## Applications Udyanite has no practical applications. Its significance is purely scientific and collectible, as a unique and recently discovered mineral.

Properties

Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Light green
Density: 3.43
Fracture: Uneven
Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of udyanite is only possible using advanced analytical methods, such as Raman spectroscopy or chemical analysis with an electron microprobe (EDS). Visual identification is impossible in field conditions or in a collection. Its intensely green color and occurrence as fine aggregates in volcanic exhalation products are characteristic. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other green vanadates occurring in similar environments, such as powellite or other minerals from the alluaudite group. Differentiation requires specialized chemical composition analysis, especially of sodium, magnesium, and vanadium content. ## Crystal Forms Udyanite forms granular aggregates composed of anhedral (not exhibiting external crystallographic forms) grains not exceeding 20 micrometers in size.

Geological environment

## Genesis Udyanite is a mineral of volcanic origin. It forms through sublimation from volcanic gases (exhalations) at high temperatures, crystallizing in voids and on the surface of porous basalts near fumaroles. ## Mineral Associations This mineral co-occurs with other rare minerals formed under similar conditions, such as bradaczekite, markhinite, evdokimovite, as well as with hematite, tenorite, and powellite. ## Localities The only confirmed occurrence of udyanite in the world is its type locality – the Arsenatnaya fumarole field on the slag cone, within the Udina volcanic complex in Kamchatka, Russia.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria The quality of udyanite specimens is primarily assessed based on the richness and intensity of the aggregate color on the host rock. Since the mineral is microscopic, the size of individual crystals is not significant. The most desirable samples are those where green udyanite aggregates create a clear contrast with the darker basaltic rock. The presence of associated minerals also increases the scientific and collectible value of the specimen. ## Popular Localities The only source of specimens is the type locality in Kamchatka, Russia. Access to this location is extremely difficult, which makes specimens very rarely available on the collector's market.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Due to its extreme rarity and fragility, udyanite specimens should not be cleaned mechanically or chemically. Any contaminants should be left undisturbed. ## What to Avoid Avoid contact with any chemicals, acids, and also ultrasonic cleaners. Do not expose it to sudden temperature changes. Specimens are usually microscopic and embedded in the host rock, so the greatest threat is mechanical damage. ## Storage Specimens should be stored exclusively in specialized micromineral boxes to prevent damage and loss. Store in stable conditions, away from dust and vibrations.

Sources

IMA Mineral List (CNMNC)