doravnum

Doravnum is a rare silicate mineral noted for its deep blue to violet coloration and strong optical properties. The name is derived from the Dorav River in the Verdantia region, where the mineral was first described in the early 1980s by mineralogists studying pegmatitic deposits. Doravnum crystals are typically small but well formed, and samples range from translucent to transparent in quality.

Physical and chemical properties: Doravnum is dominated by aluminum silicate with trace amounts of titanium and iron substituting into the crystal lattice. It crystallizes in the hexagonal system and commonly occurs as prismatic or tabular crystals. The mineral has a Mohs hardness of about 7.5 to 8 and a specific gravity around 3.9 to 4.2. Its luster is adamantine to vitreous, and it exhibits a high refractive index with notable birefringence, contributing to vibrant color play when cut as a gem.

Occurrence and formation: Doravnum forms in high-temperature, high-pressure environments within pegmatitic pockets of ultramafic metamorphic complexes. It is usually found in limited, isolated pockets rather than in broad veins and is commonly associated with corundum, spinel, and topaz.

Uses and significance: Due to its hardness and optical properties, doravnum is valued as a gemstone material for collectors and specialty jewelry. It has attracted interest in crystallography and mineral-physics research, particularly regarding its crystal chemistry and formation conditions. Commercial mining is restricted by rarity, limiting widespread use.

Taxonomy and research status: Doravnum is not yet assigned to a widely recognized mineral group within standard mineralogical classifications and is typically treated as part of pegmatitic silicate assemblages. Ongoing studies focus on its structural chemistry, occurrence mechanisms, and potential synthetic production.