ladustasite

Ladustasite is a mineral belonging to the phosphate group. It is an uncommon secondary mineral, meaning it typically forms after the primary mineral has already been altered by weathering or hydrothermal processes. Ladustasite has been found in various geological settings, often associated with phosphate-rich deposits. Its chemical formula is Fe2+Fe3+2(PO4)2(OH)2·4H2O. Structurally, it is characterized by its complex arrangement of iron atoms, phosphate groups, and water molecules. The color of ladustasite can vary, but it is often described as yellowish-brown or greenish-yellow. Crystals of ladustasite are typically small and prismatic. It is a relatively soft mineral and can be identified by its distinct chemical composition and crystalline structure. Notable occurrences of ladustasite have been reported in certain pegmatites and metamorphic rocks. Its discovery and classification contribute to the broader understanding of mineral formation and the geological processes that create them.