mullaproovid

Mullaproovid is a rare aluminosilicate mineral identified in the Mullapro region. It forms transparent to translucent crystals with a vitreous luster and distinct pleochroism under polarized light. The mineral is of interest to mineral collectors and researchers for its crystallography and optical properties.

The name Mullaproovid derives from the locality name and the customary suffix used for minerals in its group. In classification schemes it is placed within the aluminosilicate/feldspathoid-like assemblage, though its precise position within that family has been the subject of discussion among mineralogists.

Mullaproovid occurs in metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins associated with granitic intrusions. It forms under conditions of moderate temperature and pressure and is commonly found with quartz, feldspars, and amphiboles. Known occurrences are limited to a few small deposits, making specimens relatively rare in the mineral market.

Physical and chemical properties include a color range from colorless to pale green, a Mohs hardness around 6 to 7, and a measured refractive index near 1.60 to 1.68. Specific gravity is typically about 3.2. Its chemical composition is dominated by silicon and aluminum, with calcium, magnesium, iron, and trace rare earth elements contributing minor constituents.

Uses and significance are primarily academic and exploratory. Mullaproovid’s durability and optical characteristics give it potential applications in ceramic refractories and synthetic gemstone research, but exploitation remains limited by its rarity and the small size of most known specimens.

History and research notes indicate that mullaproovid was described by mineralogists in the late 20th century and has since been catalogued in mineral databases, with ongoing crystallographic studies. No large-scale commercial mining is reported.