Dibahunite

Dibahunite is a mineral discovered in 2013 within the Dibahoon district of Iran. It is a member of the complex oxide mineral group and has been classified as a member of the pyrochlore supergroup. The chemical formula for dibahunite is (Ca, Na, REE)2(Nb, Ti, Ta, Fe3+)2O6(OH, O, F). Its crystalline structure is isometric, and it typically appears as small, opaque, reddish-brown to black crystals. Dibahunite is often found in association with other rare-earth element-bearing minerals within pegmatitic and hydrothermal alteration zones. The presence of rare earth elements, particularly neodymium and lanthanum, is a significant characteristic of this mineral. The discovery of dibahunite contributes to the understanding of mineral diversity and geological processes in rare-earth-rich environments. Further research is ongoing to fully characterize its physical and chemical properties and its geological significance.