urakoiliita

Urakoiliita is a rare mineral species discovered in 2004 in Nakhon Nayok, Thailand. It is a hydrated borate mineral with the chemical formula Na[Al3(B5O9(OH)6·4H2O].

Urakoiliita is predominantly composed of aluminum, sodium, and boron, along with smaller amounts of oxygen and hydrogen. Its crystal structure consists of borate tetrahedra linked by shared oxygen atoms. The mineral can occur in a variety of colors, including blue, white, and yellow.

Phenomena associated with urakoiliita include nodular to mammillary aggregates, tabular crystals, and botryoidal habits. These crystals can grow up to several centimeters in size, showcasing intricate growth features. The mineral's matrix often features amygdules, small cavities, and inclusions, which add to its visual interest.

Chemically, urakoiliita is closely related to other azeolite group minerals. Its discovery contributed to better understanding the chemical and structural evolution of these rare minerals. High-temperature hydrothermal activity is believed to be responsible for the formation of urakoiliita in its natural environment.

Mineral specimens of urakoiliita are exceptionally rare, mainly due to the limited geographical scope of its occurrence. Scientific study of the mineral has emphasized the need for further research on its crystal chemistry, habit variations, and implications for borate mineral development.