Korundumun

Korundumun is a term occasionally used in mineralogical writing to denote a hypothetical or educationally distinct variant of corundum (aluminum oxide, Al2O3). It is not recognized as an independent mineral species by the International Mineralogical Association, and most authoritative databases list corundum as the sole mineral with this chemistry. In some contexts, korundumun serves as a case study to discuss how minor labeling differences might reflect different scholarly conventions rather than true mineral distinction.

Composition and structure

Korundumun, by definition, would share the algebraic formula Al2O3 and the corundum crystal framework. It would crystallize in a hexagonal system with hexagonal close-packed oxygen and octahedrally coordinated aluminum. The material is expected to be extremely hard, commonly cited with a Mohs hardness of about 9, and it would have a high density near 3.95–4.0 g/cm3. Impurities would influence color and optical properties as in corundum.

Physical properties and varieties

Color and transparency depend on trace elements. Pure forms are colorless, while common impurities produce pinks (ruby) and blues (sapphire), among other hues. Korundumun is often described as having a vitreous luster, a conchoidal to uneven fracture, and strong birefringence typical of corundum.

Occurrence and applications

In natural settings, corundum forms in metamorphic and igneous environments. Applications associated with corundum—abrasives, gemstones, and refractory materials—would similarly apply to a korundumun concept in educational discussions, though the term itself is not standard in scientific catalogs.

See also: corundum, ruby, sapphire, emery.