metallisulamite

Metallisulamite is a rare lithium sulfide mineral. It is a yellow to brown orthorhombic mineral that appears in hydrothermal veins and hot springs. The mineral is often associated with quartz, calcite, and sulfide minerals. Metallisulamite is known for its high lithium content, which makes it of interest to scientists and geologists studying lithium-rich minerals.

The mineral was first identified in the early 20th century in the Finnish Lapland region. It was later found in other parts of the world, including Norway, Sweden, and Russia. Metallisulamite often forms as a secondary mineral, resulting from the alteration of primary sulfide minerals.

The crystal structure of metallisulamite is composed of lithium and sulfur atoms, which are arranged in a complex orthorhombic pattern. The mineral has a distinctive yellow-brown color and a vitreous luster. It has a relatively high density, ranging from 2.7 to 2.9 g/cm3.

Metallisulamite is relatively rare and is primarily of interest to scientists and collectors. Its occurrence has led to interest in lithium deposits in various regions. However, its distribution is limited, and it is not typically found in commercial quantities.

Due to its rarity and limited availability, metallisulamite is not commonly used as a source of lithium or other minerals. Rather, its significance lies in its utility as a geological specimen and a indicator of lithium-rich mineralization. Its unique occurrence and association with other minerals make it a focus of interest in the fields of mineralogy and geology.