rovereita

Rovereita is a rare mineral species discovered in 2015. It is named after the Italian mineralogist and petrologist, Roberto Vezzosi, in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of mineralogy. Rovereita is a complex oxide mineral with the chemical formula (Na,Ca)2(Mn,Fe)2+2(Fe,Mn)3+4O8. It typically forms as a secondary mineral in low-temperature hydrothermal environments, often associated with other manganese and iron oxides.

The mineral exhibits a dark brown to black color, with a metallic luster. Its crystal structure is orthorhombic, and it usually occurs as small, anhedral grains or as coatings on other minerals. Rovereita is of particular interest to mineralogists due to its unique chemical composition and the conditions under which it forms.

Despite its rarity, rovereita has been found in only a few locations worldwide, including the type locality in the San Giovanni mine, Apuan Alps, Italy, and in the Iron Mountain mine, California, USA. The mineral's discovery has contributed to the ongoing study of low-temperature hydrothermal processes and the formation of manganese and iron oxides in various geological settings.