vozankite

Vozankite is a rare mineral species discovered in the 21st century. It was first identified in the Voznak Mountain in the Czech Republic, from which it gets its name. The mineral is a member of the barite group and is characterized by its tabular crystals and tabular to columnar habit.

Chemically, voznkite is composed of thallous calcium barium sulfate, represented by the formula Tl-type CsBa(SO4)2. Its structure consists of a barium sulfate framework with calcium and thallium cations occupying interstitial sites. The mineral is often associated with other barite group minerals, such as wiskeite and herbertsmithite.

Vozankite has a pale yellow color and a vitreous luster. It is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of around 3-4, and has a distinct cleavage. The mineral is relatively rare, and its occurrences are typically restricted to specific geological environments. In terms of reactivity, voznkite is somewhat susceptible to weathering and alteration.

Vozankite was first described in a scientific publication in 2003, and since then, several notable occurrences have been documented in the CZ Cavov systém and the Ružínov pottery complex in the Czech Republic. Further research on the mineral's properties and behavior is ongoing, contributing to its classification and understanding within the broader context of mineralogy.

Given its relative rarity and limited geographic distribution, voznkite is primarily of interest to mineralogists, collectors, and researchers in the field of solid-state chemistry. Its study and documentation contribute to a broader understanding of geological and geochemical processes that shape our planet.