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Cayalsite-(Y): A Newly Discovered Mineral
Introduction to Cayalsite-(Y)
Cayalsite-(Y) is a newly discovered mineral that has garnered attention in the field of mineralogy due to its unique composition and occurrence. This mineral is a rare-earth calcium aluminum fluorosilicate, with the chemical formula CaY6Al2Si4O18F61.
Discovery and Localities
Cayalsite-(Y) was discovered in cavities of Y-fluorite within two granitic NYF-pegmatites hosted by granitic gneiss in Tysfjord, Nordland, Norway. The specific localities are Stetind and Ovre Lapplaegeret1. These sites are known for their rich mineral diversity and have provided a conducive environment for the formation of this rare mineral.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Cayalsite-(Y) forms colorless to faintly pink vitreous prismatic crystals, which can grow up to 1.2 × 0.4 mm or form radiating aggregates. The mineral exhibits a white streak and a vitreous luster, and it does not show any fluorescence. It is brittle with an uneven fracture and no observed cleavage. The micro-indentation hardness of the 1 O polytype is VHN = 1049 kg/mm², which corresponds to approximately 6½ on the Mohs scale1.
Crystallography
Cayalsite-(Y) has been identified in two polytypes: 1 M and 1 O. Both polytypes occur as intergrown crystals in Stetind, while only the 1 O polytype has been clearly identified at Ovre Lapplaegeret. The observed crystal forms include prisms, dipyramids, and pinacoids1.
Associated Minerals
At both localities, cayalsite-(Y) is closely associated with minerals such as bastnasite-(Ce), hematite, and vyuntspakhkite-(Y). Additionally, Hundholmenite-(Y) and a montmorillonite-like mineral are found in Stetind1.
Conclusion
Cayalsite-(Y) is a significant addition to the catalog of known minerals, offering insights into the complex processes of mineral formation in granitic pegmatites. Its discovery in Norway highlights the region's geological richness and the potential for finding other rare minerals. The detailed study of cayalsite-(Y) contributes to our understanding of rare-earth element mineralogy and the conditions under which such minerals form.
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