Vaiastandite

Vaiastandite is a mineral that belongs to the silicate group. Its chemical formula is (Mn2+,Ca)5Si6O15(OH)2. It is known for its distinctive crystal structure and chemical composition. Vaiastandite was first described in 2004 and is named after the geological area where it was discovered. It typically forms in metamorphic rocks, often associated with manganese-rich environments. The mineral usually appears as prismatic or fibrous crystals and can exhibit a range of colors, commonly pink, reddish-brown, or gray. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is typically between 5 and 6, indicating it is moderately hard. Vaiastandite is relatively rare and is primarily of interest to mineralogists and geologists for its scientific significance and contribution to understanding mineral formation processes. It is not a commercially important mineral and is generally collected by enthusiasts and researchers.