Mamertine

Mamertine is a rare and distinctive mineral, belonging to the group of phosphates. It was first discovered in 1998 in the Mamert mine, located in the Mont Saint-Hilaire region of Quebec, Canada. The mineral is named after the mine where it was found, reflecting its unique occurrence.

Mamertine crystallizes in the monoclinic system and typically forms prismatic crystals. Its color ranges from yellow to brown, and it has a vitreous to resinous luster. The mineral is transparent to translucent and exhibits a perfect cleavage in one direction. Mamertine is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4.

The chemical composition of mamertine is complex, with the idealized formula being Na2Ca2(PO4)2F. It is characterized by its high content of sodium, calcium, and fluorine, along with phosphate ions. The mineral's structure is composed of isolated tetrahedral (PO4) groups, which are linked to each other through calcium and sodium ions.

Mamertine is of interest to mineralogists and collectors due to its rarity and distinctive appearance. It is typically found in association with other phosphate minerals, such as triphylite and lithiophilite, in the pegmatites of the Mont Saint-Hilaire region. The mineral's occurrence is limited to a few specific locations worldwide, making it a sought-after specimen for collectors.

In summary, mamertine is a rare phosphate mineral discovered in the Mamert mine of Quebec, Canada. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and exhibits a yellow to brown color with a vitreous to resinous luster. The mineral's chemical composition is characterized by high contents of sodium, calcium, and fluorine, along with phosphate ions. Mamertine is of interest to mineralogists and collectors due to its rarity and distinctive appearance.