Súinite

Súinite is a term that refers to a group of minerals that are part of the larger silicate mineral class. These minerals are characterized by their unique crystal structure and chemical composition. The name "súinite" is derived from the type locality, Súina, in the Czech Republic, where these minerals were first discovered.

Súinite minerals are typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. They are often associated with other silicate minerals such as pyroxenes and amphiboles. The most common members of the súinite group include suanite, suanite-(Ce), and suanite-(Nd). These minerals are named after their dominant rare earth elements, cerium (Ce) and neodymium (Nd).

The crystal structure of súinite minerals is monoclinic, meaning that they have three unequal axes, with one axis inclined to the other two. This structure gives súinite minerals their distinctive prismatic crystal forms. Chemically, súinite minerals are complex silicates that contain a variety of elements, including calcium, sodium, aluminum, and various rare earth elements.

Súinite minerals are not widely known or studied compared to other silicate minerals. However, they are of interest to mineralogists and geologists due to their unique crystal structure and chemical composition. They can provide valuable insights into the geological processes that form metamorphic and igneous rocks. Additionally, the rare earth elements found in súinite minerals have various industrial applications, making these minerals potentially economically significant.