syngenite

Syngenite is a naturally occurring hydrated potassium calcium sulfate mineral. Its chemical formula is K2Ca(SO4)2·H2O. It is a relatively rare mineral and is typically found in arid environments, such as salt lakes, playas, and saline deposits. Syngenite is a member of the sulfate group of minerals and is closely related to other sulfate minerals like polyhalite. It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system, forming prismatic or acicular crystals, often appearing as efflorescences or crusts. The color of syngenite is typically colorless to white, though impurities can sometimes impart a yellowish or grayish hue. It has a vitreous luster and a Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 3, making it a relatively soft mineral. Syngenite is soluble in water, which contributes to its presence in evaporite deposits formed by the drying of saline water bodies. Notable occurrences include the Stassfurt salt deposits in Germany, the Castile Formation in New Mexico, USA, and various locations in China and Iran. It is not considered an economically important mineral, but it is of interest to mineralogists and geologists studying evaporite formations and arid environments.