Neubautenit

Neubautenit is a rare mineral that was first discovered in the mid-20th century. Its chemical formula is Mn(Fe2+,Mn3+)2(PO4)2. The mineral is named after Neubauten, a locality in the Czech Republic, where it was found. Neubautenit is characterized by its vibrant reddish-brown to dark brown color and a vitreous to greasy luster. It typically occurs in granular, massive, or botryoidal forms.

This phosphate mineral is found in association with other manganese and iron-bearing minerals, often within pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Geologically, Neubautenit is considered a secondary mineral, meaning it forms from the alteration of pre-existing minerals. Its formation conditions are usually associated with oxidizing environments. While not a commercially significant mineral, Neubautenit is of interest to mineralogists and collectors due to its rarity and distinctive appearance. It is also studied for its potential role in understanding geological processes in manganese-rich environments.