saureita

Saureita is a rare and distinctive mineral species, first discovered in the Saura Mountains of Spain in 1989. It is a member of the zeolite group, which are a class of tectosilicates with a three-dimensional framework structure. Saureita is characterized by its unique chemical composition, which includes sodium, calcium, magnesium, and aluminum, along with silicon and oxygen. Its crystal structure is monoclinic, and it typically forms as small, colorless to white crystals or granular masses.

Saureita is notable for its occurrence in volcanic rocks, particularly in association with other zeolite minerals such as chabazite and phillipsite. It is often found in cavities and fractures within these rocks, where it has been formed through hydrothermal processes. The mineral's name is derived from its type locality, the Saura Mountains.

Saureita is of limited interest to collectors and mineral enthusiasts due to its rarity and the fact that it is often difficult to distinguish from other zeolite minerals. However, it is significant to geologists and mineralogists as it provides insights into the geological processes that form zeolite minerals in volcanic environments. Its study contributes to the understanding of the complex interactions between water, minerals, and volcanic rocks.