Ligandenit

Ligandenit is a rare mineral species discovered in 2015. It is named after the ligand, a molecule or ion that binds to a central metal atom to form a coordination complex. The mineral was first found in the Khibina alkaline complex in the Kola Peninsula, Russia. It is a complex oxide mineral with the chemical formula Na2Ca2(CO3)3F. The mineral is characterized by its bright yellow color and its unique crystal structure, which is trigonal. Ligandenit is of interest to mineralogists and geologists due to its rarity and the unique chemical environment in which it forms. It is also a valuable specimen for collectors due to its distinctive appearance. The mineral's discovery has contributed to the understanding of the complex chemical processes that occur in alkaline complexes and has provided new insights into the formation of rare minerals.