reljeefid

Reljeefid is a mineral species described for its distinctive layered, relief-like crystal morphology. The name derives from the term relief and the standard mineral suffix -id, reflecting its corrugated cleavage surfaces and aggregated habit.

Discovery and occurrence: First described in 2021 from hydrothermal vent deposits in the Atlantis field, the mineral has since been confirmed in several vent-related settings along mid-ocean ridges. Type locality: Atlantis Vent Complex, Pacific Ocean. It occurs as fine-grained to microcrystalline aggregates within sulfide-rich veins.

Crystal chemistry and structure: Reljeefid forms as lamellar sheets arranged in a layered framework. It crystallizes in a monoclinic system with strong cleavage along two perpendicular directions, producing high-relief surfaces when prepared as hand specimens.

Physical properties: Typically metallic to dull luster; color ranges from steel gray to olive-bronze; opaque; Mohs hardness around 3–4; measured densities high due to metal content.

Composition and associations: Considered a complex sulfide-oxide with variable composition, typically rich in copper, iron, and sulfur, with trace elements such as zinc, nickel, and tellurium. It commonly occurs with pyrite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, and goethite in hydrothermal assemblages.

Significance and notes: The layered structure suggests potential in studies of mineral growth under high-temperature, high-pressure fluids and has attracted interest for possible catalytic properties in industrial chemistry. Due to its rarity, no large-scale mining currently exists.