Ruizite
Ruizite is a rare silicate mineral with the chemical formula Ca2Mn3+2Si4O11(OH)4•2H2O. It is a phyllosilicate, meaning it has a layered or sheet-like structure.
Characteristics:
- Color: Typically exhibits a reddish-brown to orange-brown color.
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy).
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic.
- Habit: Commonly found as aggregates of platy or scaly crystals.
- Cleavage: Perfect on {010}.
- Hardness: 3 (Mohs scale).
- Specific Gravity: Approximately 2.75.
- Optical Properties: Biaxial (+).
Occurrence:
Ruizite is a secondary mineral that forms in manganese-rich hydrothermal deposits. It is often associated with other manganese minerals such as quartz, calcite, and various oxides. Notable localities include the Christmas mine in Gila County, Arizona, USA.
Etymology:
The mineral is named in honor of Joe A. Ruiz, an American mineral collector, for his contributions to the study of minerals from the Christmas mine.
Identification:
Ruizite can be identified by its characteristic color, platy habit, perfect cleavage, and association with other manganese minerals. X-ray diffraction and chemical analysis are definitive methods for confirming its identification.