Voittosovite

Voittosovite is a rare mineral discovered in 2009 in the Kola Peninsula, Russia. It is named after the Finnish word "voitto," meaning victory, reflecting the mineral's discovery as a result of a successful geochemical survey. Voittosovite is a complex oxide mineral with the chemical formula (Na,K)2Ca2(Fe,Mn)4Ti2Si8O28. It crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system and typically forms small, dark brown to black crystals or granular masses.

Voittosovite is notable for its unique chemical composition and structure. It is one of the few minerals that contain both titanium and silicon in its crystal lattice. The mineral is often associated with other titanium-rich minerals such as titanite and perovskite. It has been found in association with alkaline rocks, specifically carbonatites, which are igneous rocks rich in carbonates.

The mineral's discovery has contributed to the understanding of the geochemical processes involved in the formation of alkaline rocks and the behavior of titanium in the Earth's crust. Voittosovite is a valuable specimen for collectors due to its rarity and distinctive appearance. However, its small size and the challenging conditions of its type locality make it difficult to find and study in detail.