plare

Plare is a rare and exotic silicate mineral species belonging to the amphibole group. It is characterized by its distinctive greenish-blue color and needle-like crystals. The mineral is relatively rare due to its specific formation conditions, which require the presence of certain phases of metamorphism in aluminous basalt.

Plare was first discovered in 1967 in the Pogonovo quarry in the Republic of Bashkortostan, Russia. Since its discovery, a few smaller deposits have been identified in other parts of the world, including North America. The mineral is primarily composed of calcium, sodium, and aluminum.

Plare's chemical composition is CaNaA12-5Si4-6O22(OH)2. In terms of physical properties, the mineral is known to be hard and brittle, with a refractive index of approximately 1.59. Plare is typically found in contact metamorphic rocks, often in conjunction with other amphibole minerals.

Notable occurrences of plare include the type locality in Pogonovo, as well as smaller deposits in Quebec, Canada, and in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. The mineral's aesthetic appeal, combined with its relative rarity, has led to increased interest among mineral collectors.

Due to the limited availability of plare, scientific research on its structure, properties, and possible applications is ongoing. Ongoing studies focus on characterizing the mineral's unique properties, its potential uses in various fields, and the conditions required for its formation.