Kandideerite

Kandideerite is a rare mineral species discovered in 1971 in Madagascar. It is classified as a member of the hydrate family, specifically a form of hydrated magnesium aluminum silicate hydroxide. The composition of the mineral is Mg6Si6Al2O20(OH)16·6H2O.

Kandideerite was first identified in the 1970s by a team of geologists led by mineralogist Dale Thieme. The mineral was found in the Ikalamahamena Pegmatite in the Vikkim Vonaba area of Madagascar. The pegmatite is a type of igneous rock that is formed during the last stages of a magma chamber's cooling process.

Kandideerite has a distinctive crystal form, typically characterized by a columnar or tabular shape. The mineral crystallizes in the pyramidal (isostructural to augelite) or orthorhombic system, displaying a large cleavage that forms simple planar shapes. Its optical properties render it as anisotropic (indicated by crossed nicols), proving that the mineral exhibits some degree of optical properties. Kandideerite appears transparent and exhibits an earthy brown to pale gray color.

Kandideerite is not found in large quantities and is, therefore, considered a rare mineral. Its limited availability makes it valuable to collectors and researchers looking to study the properties and geological origin of the mineral.

Due to its relatively recent discovery, limited studies on Kandideerite have been conducted to this day. Consequently, further research into the geological and chemical properties of this rare mineral is ongoing, with findings and theories likely to emerge in time.