diffuusite

Diffuusite is a rare and enigmatic mineral that was first identified in 2018 by a team of researchers led by geologist Dr. Stuart Mills at the University of Western Australia. The mineral was discovered in a small sample of rock from the Nabarlek uranium mine in the Northern Territory of Australia. Its name derives from the Latin word *diffusus*, meaning "spread out," reflecting its unusual crystal structure and habit.

Diffuusite has the chemical formula Na₃Cu₇(SO₄)₄Cl·3H₂O, indicating it is a hydrated sodium copper sulfate chloride. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and exhibits a pale blue to greenish-blue color with a vitreous luster. The mineral forms as thin, elongated plates or blades, often appearing fibrous or diffused, which contributes to its distinctive name. Diffuusite is typically found in association with other secondary uranium minerals, such as bayldonite and liebigite, in oxidized zones of uranium deposits.

One of the most notable aspects of diffuusite is its rarity. It is one of the few minerals discovered in the 21st century, and only a handful of specimens have been documented. Its formation is linked to the weathering and oxidation of primary uranium minerals under specific chemical conditions, particularly in arid or semi-arid environments. Due to its scarcity and unique characteristics, diffuusite has gained attention among mineral collectors and researchers studying secondary uranium minerals.

The mineral’s physical properties include a Mohs hardness of approximately 2.5, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching. Its specific gravity ranges from about 2.6 to 2.7, which is relatively low for a sulfate mineral. Diffuusite is not known for any significant industrial or commercial applications, but its study contributes to the broader understanding of mineral formation and the geochemistry of uranium deposits. As of now, diffuusite remains a subject of interest primarily within academic and collector circles.