Wangkuirenite

Chemical formula: Pb₂+₃Cl₂(Se₄+O₃)₂

Wangkuirenite is an extremely rare lead and chlorine selenite, forming colorless, tabular crystals with an adamantine luster.

## Characteristics Wangkuirenite is a mineral from the selenite group, characterized by a complex chemical composition containing lead, chlorine, and selenium. It occurs as very small, tabular crystals, not exceeding 0.2 mm in size. The crystals are colorless and transparent, which, combined with a strong, adamantine luster, gives them a unique appearance despite their small size. ## Physical Properties This mineral is distinguished by a high refractive index, which is the cause of its adamantine luster. It is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 2. Due to the presence of lead in its composition, its density is high, at 5.96 g/cm³. ## History and Name Wangkuirenite was discovered in the Laohudong coal mine, near Fushun City in Liaoning Province, China. It was officially recognized as a new mineral by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) in 2023 (IMA2023-088). The mineral is named in honor of Professor Wang Kuiren (born 1932), a Chinese mineralogist and crystallographer from the Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, for his contributions to mineralogy and the discovery of many new minerals.

Properties

Mohs hardness: 2
Luster: Adamantine
Streak: White
Density: 5.96
Cleavage: Perfect on {0001}
Fracture: Irregular/Uneven
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Trigonal

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of wangkuirenite is possible only through advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Visual identification is impossible due to its microscopic size and lack of characteristic features visible to the naked eye. It is distinguished by its adamantine luster and high density. ## Differentiation from similar minerals It can be confused with other colorless secondary minerals found in the same environment, such as anglesite or cerussite. Definitive differentiation requires chemical analysis confirming the presence of selenium and chlorine. ## Crystal forms It forms thin, tabular crystals with a hexagonal outline, often occurring as rosette-like or irregular aggregates.

Geological environment

## Genesis Wangkuirenite is a secondary mineral that formed as a result of the weathering processes of primary minerals under specific conditions prevailing in coal mine fire dumps. Its formation is associated with the interaction of fumarolic gases with surrounding rocks. ## Mineral associations This mineral occurs in association with other rare selenites and sulfates, such as laohudongite, cerussite, anglesite, adachiite, and anhydrite. ## Localities The only known occurrence of wangkuirenite in the world is its type locality – a burnt coal dump at the Laohudong mine, Fushun District, Liaoning Province, China.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality criteria Due to its extreme rarity and microscopic size, every authenticated wangkuirenite specimen is extremely valuable for specialized collections. The most important criterion is the confirmation of the mineral's authenticity by a reputable laboratory. The size and quality of the crystals, although still microscopic, can influence value, as can the richness of associations with other rare minerals.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Due to the extreme rarity and small size of the crystals, wangkuirenite specimens should not be subjected to any form of mechanical or chemical cleaning. Any attempts at cleaning may irreversibly damage the specimen. ## What to avoid Avoid contact with water, acids, bases, and all solvents. The mineral is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. It should be protected from sunlight, which can cause degradation. Due to its lead content, avoid inhaling dust and direct skin contact. ## Storage Specimens should be stored exclusively in specialized, airtight micromount boxes, under stable temperature and humidity conditions, away from light and vibrations.

Sources

IMA Mineral List (CNMNC)