listvenite

Listvenite is a rare mineral that was first discovered in the Listvenite mine in the Kola Peninsula, Russia, in 1977. It is a complex oxide mineral with the chemical formula (Na,Ca)2(Fe,Mn)3+3Ti2O8. Listvenite is typically found in alkaline igneous rocks and pegmatites, often associated with minerals such as aegirine, arfvedsonite, and astrophyllite.

The mineral is named after the Listvenite mine, where it was first found. It is characterized by its dark brown to black color, metallic luster, and perfect cleavage. Listvenite has a hardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of approximately 3.6 to 3.7.

Listvenite is of interest to mineralogists and collectors due to its rarity and unique chemical composition. It is also studied for its potential applications in materials science, particularly in the development of new magnetic and electronic materials. Despite its scientific significance, listvenite remains relatively unknown to the general public.