prisutnik

Prisutnik is a rare and distinctive mineral that belongs to the group of phosphates. It was first discovered in 1978 in the Kola Peninsula, Russia, and is named after the Russian word "prisutniy," meaning "present," reflecting its presence in the mineral deposit. Prisutnik is characterized by its unique chemical composition, which includes calcium, sodium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Its crystal structure is monoclinic, and it typically forms small, prismatic crystals or granular masses.

The mineral is notable for its pale yellow to colorless appearance and its translucent to transparent nature. Prisutnik is often found in association with other phosphate minerals such as apatite and monazite. It has a Mohs hardness of approximately 5, making it relatively soft compared to many other minerals. The mineral's specific gravity is around 3.1, indicating its density.

Prisutnik is of limited interest to collectors and mineralogists due to its rarity and the fact that it is not typically found in large, well-formed crystals. However, it remains a subject of study for those interested in the geochemistry and mineralogy of phosphate-bearing deposits. Its discovery and characterization contribute to the broader understanding of mineral diversity and the geological processes that form them.