Geikielite

Geikielite is a rare mineral belonging to the perovskite group. Its chemical formula is MgTiO3, meaning it is a magnesium titanate. Geikielite typically appears as black or dark brown crystals, often found in small, granular aggregates. It is a relatively hard mineral, with a Mohs hardness of around 5.5 to 6. The specific gravity of geikielite is approximately 4.1.

This mineral was first described in 1891 and named in honor of Sir Archibald Geikie, a Scottish geologist. Geikielite is primarily found in association with other titanium-rich minerals, such as perovskite and ilmenite. It is often encountered in metamorphic rocks, particularly in high-grade metamorphic environments like granulites. It can also occur in some alkaline and carbonatite igneous rocks. Notable occurrences include locations in Greenland, Norway, and parts of North America. Due to its rarity and typically small crystal size, geikielite is not of significant economic importance. However, its presence can provide valuable clues about the geological conditions under which it formed.