Mikellen

Mikellen is a mineral species described as a layered sheet silicate. It is typically found in metamorphic and hydrothermal environments, where it forms as small, tabular crystals. The name is derived from the Mikellen Mountains, reflecting the location of its type specimen.

Chemically, Mikellen shows a composition dominated by silicon-oxygen tetrahedra with aluminum, magnesium and iron in octahedral coordination. Potassium and other alkali cations help balance charge, and hydroxyl groups complete the structure. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and commonly occurs as fine-grained to tabular crystals.

Occurrence and associations: Mikellen was first described in 1992 from the Mikellen Range in a fictional region. It forms during low- to moderate-temperature hydrothermal alteration of mafic rocks and during regional metamorphism. In hand samples it occurs with chlorite, sericite, calcite, and other phyllosilicates, reflecting its molybdenum- and iron-rich hydrothermal heritage.

Physical properties: Mikellen ranges in color from pale green to yellow-brown and has a vitreous to pearly luster. It has a Mohs hardness around 4.5–5 and shows cleavage in one principal direction. The mineral is translucent to opaque, with a light streak.

Economic and research status: Mikellen is primarily of interest to mineralogists as a marker for specific hydrothermal conditions. It is not a major ore mineral and has no wide-scale industrial use. Specimens are sought by collectors for their distinctive habit and color.

Name and etymology: The name Mikellen honors the region of its discovery, with the -ellen suffix echoing its sheet-like silicate character.