Ruuterite

Ruuterite, also written ruuterite in some sources, is a hypothetical mineral species described in fictional mineral literature. The name follows standard mineral nomenclature by combining a reference to ruthenium with the common -ite suffix used for minerals.

Proposed composition places ruuterite in the ruthenium-oxide sulfide group, with a conjectured formula of Ru2O3S. In the fictional account, it forms a solid solution with trace amounts of iron and nickel, and crystallizes in the monoclinic system. Specimens are described as tabular to blocky crystals with high density and a metallic to submetallic luster.

Physical properties are given as a deep blue to black color, a gray-black streak, and a hardness around 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. The refractive index is reported as very high in the visible range, consistent with the presence of heavy metals, and the mineral is usually opaque.

Occurrence and formation are described in a single fictional locality, within hydrothermal veins of ultramafic rocks at high temperature and moderate sulfur fugacity. It is said to occur with rutile, magnetite, and chromite, and to form through crystallization from sulfur-rich fluids in contact metasomatic environments.

Status and uses: ruuterite is not recognized by major mineral databases and is considered a product of speculative fiction rather than a confirmed mineral. If real, its high ruthenium content might attract interest as a research material for catalysis or dense optical components, but its rarity would limit practical applications.