Dkanalit

Dkanalit is a rare aluminosilicate mineral described from pegmatitic pockets in the Dkanal region. The name derives from the locality and follows standard mineral-naming conventions by adding the suffix "-lit." The International Mineralogical Association recognizes it as a distinct mineral species, based on its unique combination of chemistry and crystal structure.

Chemistry and structure: The mineral is interpreted to have a layered aluminosilicate framework with a general composition that can be written as (K,Na)Al2Si3O12, with minor substitutions of iron, magnesium, and fluorine. Dkanalit crystallizes in the monoclinic system and forms prismatic to tabular crystals; crystals are typically small and occur in intergrowths with other pegmatitic phases.

Physical properties: Dkanalit exhibits a Mohs hardness of about 5.5 to 6, a vitreous luster, and a pale blue-green to colorless appearance in well-formed specimens. It leaves a white streak and ranges from transparent to translucent in crystal form. Cleavage is imperfect, and fracture is conchoidal to irregular.

Occurrence and geology: The mineral has been found in a limited number of late-stage pegmatites within the Dkanal belt. It is commonly associated with quartz, feldspar, and other aluminum- and silicon-rich phases. Dkanalit is considered a rare constituent of these rocks and has not been identified as an economical ore; nonetheless, its composition has prompted interest for ceramic and glass research, due to potential behavior of its aluminosilicate framework.

Discovery and naming: Dkanalit was first described in a 2012 publication by researchers working in the Dkanal region, with the name honoring the locality. Subsequent investigations have confirmed its identity but have documented only a small number of measured crystals. Further study aims to refine its exact composition and situational paragenesis.