magmatiset

Magmatiset is a proposed mineral species that would crystallize from high-temperature silicate melts during magmatic differentiation. The term combines magma with the mineral suffix -site and is used in theoretical geochemistry and experimental petrology.

Its described composition is magnesium-iron aluminum silicate with a silicate framework that in models is represented by a simplified formula containing Fe and Mg as major cations, with aluminum and silicon in tetrahedra and possible trace elements. In structural terms, magmatiset is imagined to have a layered or chain-like framework, giving it moderate to high hardness and a vitreous to sub-vitreous luster. Physical properties in models often include a calculated refractive index mid-range, and a density around 3.0–3.5 g/cm3.

Formation and setting: In petrogenetic models, magmatiset would form during rapid cooling or through fractional crystallization at the margins of magmatic intrusions, or in high-temperature magmatic fluids facilitating silicate polymerization.

Occurrence: There are no verified natural specimens as of now; magmatiset exists primarily in theoretical studies and computational experiments. It is used as a reference point to explore possible crystal-chemistry outcomes in silicate melts and to test crystallization pathways in igneous rocks.

Significance: If identified in the future, magmatiset could help resolve questions about the early stages of mineral crystallization in magmas and influence the interpretation of X-ray diffraction data from high-temperature rocks.

See also: igneous petrology, silicate minerals, mineral modeling, crystallization.