Researchers from the Ural State Mining University have discovered and described a rare mineral, yttrium petersite, which was not previously found in Russia.
The stone has an unusual structure and forms fine needle-shaped crystals with a hexagonal cross-section, which are collected in bundles and fan-shaped intergrowths. Their color ranges from pale blue with a silky sheen to bright turquoise blue, sometimes with a greenish tint. In appearance, the crystals gathered in one place resemble stone flowers or a colony of tiny moths.
Scientists discovered the mineral while working on a malachite collection from the Mednorudyanskoye deposit in the Middle Urals. It was not possible to determine the appearance of a stone unlike any other, so mineralogists resorted to X-ray and electron microscopy methods, which allow to study the structure and structure of materials at the atomic level.
According to scientists, the mineral is semi-precious and can be used in the jewelry industry. In addition, the content of yttrium, a rare earth metal, is of interest. These elements are used in the manufacture of smartphones, computers, precision instruments and other electronic products.
Source: Ferra
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