katukaite

Katukaite is a rare and highly sought-after mineral that belongs to the family of silicates, specifically a member of the sorosilicate subclass. It was first identified in 1995 and named after its type locality, the Katuka River in the Mbeya Region of Tanzania, where it was discovered in a pegmatite deposit. The mineral’s chemical composition is primarily composed of sodium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen, with the formula Na₃Al₃Si₃O₁₂·H₂O. Its structure features complex silicate anions, giving it a unique crystal habit.

Katukaite typically forms as small, transparent to translucent crystals that exhibit a vitreous luster. The mineral is often found in association with other pegmatite minerals such as albite, microcline, and quartz. Its color ranges from colorless to pale yellow or greenish-white, though it may appear slightly tinted due to impurities. Due to its rarity, katukaite is not commonly encountered in collections or research, making it a notable curiosity among mineralogists.

The formation of katukaite is linked to hydrothermal processes in granitic pegmatites, where it crystallizes from low-temperature fluids. Its occurrence is limited to a few known localities, primarily in Tanzania, though similar minerals with comparable structures have been documented in other regions. The scarcity of katukaite contributes to its value in scientific study and mineralogical collections.

While katukaite is not widely recognized outside specialized circles, its unique crystal structure and rarity make it an important subject for research in mineralogy and geochemistry. Collectors and researchers often seek out specimens for their aesthetic appeal and scientific significance.