Norsethite

specimen number:
2312411

location:
Kremikovtsi mine, Stolichna, Sofia City, Bulgaria

description:
Platy crystals of this rare mineral measuring to 0.4 cm in size on matrix. In great condition.

The Kremikovtsi mine, situated near Sofia in Bulgaria, is a massive stratiform-stratabound deposit whose industrial exploitation began in 1959 to supply a major national metallurgical complex before its closure. Geologically, the deposit is hosted within Triassic carbonate sequences, featuring a complex interplay of sedimentary exhalative and hydrothermal processes that formed extensive iron, manganese, and barite ores. Mineralogically, the deposit is celebrated for a rich assemblage that includes large barite crystals, various iron and manganese oxides, and rare species such as manganese-rich norsethite.

Norsethite is a rare double carbonate mineral containing barium and magnesium, belonging structurally to the dolomite group. It typically crystallizes in the trigonal system to form sharp, vitreous rhombohedral crystals or small platy clusters that are usually colorless, white, or pale yellow. Due to its high barium content, it possesses a notably high density for a carbonate mineral.

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