ogldalnoci

ogldalnoci is a proposed mineral species described from a small ultramafic-hosted deposit in the Ogl Valley. The term ogldalnoci denotes a magnesium-rich silicate with microcrystalline aggregates. The discovery was reported in 2010 by mineralogists at the Ogladale Geology Institute after analysis of samples collected during a regional survey. The name combines the locality “Ogl” with a suffix common in mineral nomenclature.

The mineral is described as olive-green to pale olive, with a vitreous to resinous luster and a pale green streak. It is translucent in fine grains but opaque in larger crystals. Mohs hardness is estimated at 5.5–6.0. The crystal system is described as monoclinic with a basal plane parallel to the sheet-like microcrystals.

Occurrence and associations: Only one deposit has been described to date, in metamorphosed ultramafic rocks near the Ogl River. Associated minerals include serpentine, olivine, magnetite, and chalcopyrite. The deposit is small, and the total resource is unknown.

Nomenclature and status: The name ogldalnoci derives from the locality and is used provisionally. The International Mineralogical Association has not yet validated it as a distinct mineral species; further peer-reviewed work is required.