triphylitelithiophyllite

Triphylitelithiophyllite is a mineral belonging to the triphylite group, which are phosphate minerals. Its chemical formula is (Li,Fe,Mn)3(PO4), indicating that lithium, iron, and manganese are the primary cations in its structure, with lithium being a significant component. It is closely related to triphylite and lithiophyllite, differing mainly in the relative proportions of iron and manganese. Triphylitelithiophyllite typically forms in granitic pegmatites and can also be found in lithium-bearing pegmatites. Its color can vary, often appearing grayish, greenish, or brownish. It is generally opaque to translucent. The crystal system is orthorhombic. This mineral is often found in association with other phosphate minerals such as montebrasite, apatite, and amblygonite. While not a primary source of lithium or manganese, it can be studied for its mineralogical significance and its occurrence in specific geological environments. Its hardness is typically around 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, and it has a specific gravity of approximately 3.4 to 3.5. Due to its complex composition and relatively rare occurrence, triphylitelithiophyllite is of interest to mineral collectors and geologists studying pegmatite formation.