Ronkoite

Ronkoite is a mineral with the chemical formula Na3Ca(Mg,Fe)2(PO4)3. It is a rare phosphate mineral that was first discovered in 1996. The type locality for Ronkoite is the Morro da Mina mine in Brazil. The mineral is named after the Brazilian mineralogist Ronko. Ronkoite typically occurs as small, transparent to translucent crystals, often exhibiting a vitreous luster. Its color can range from colorless to pale yellow or pink. It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. Ronkoite is found in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, often associated with other phosphate minerals. Its formation is linked to the alteration of primary phosphate minerals. Due to its rarity, Ronkoite is of interest primarily to mineral collectors and researchers. It is not known to have any significant industrial or commercial applications. The structure of Ronkoite features isolated phosphate tetrahedra and octahedrally coordinated cations. Further research continues to explore its geological occurrence and crystallographic properties.