FEDOTOVITE Meaning and
Definition
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Fedotovite is a mineral that belongs to the tectosilicate group, specifically a member of the zeolite family. It is a relatively rare mineral and is characterized by its unique crystal structure and chemical composition. The term "fedotovite" is derived from its discoverer, Russian mineralogist Sergey Fedotov, who first identified and described this mineral in the early 20th century.
Chemically, fedotovite has a formula of Na4Ti2Si8O22·6H2O. It typically occurs as yellow to brownish-yellow crystals in a prismatic or tabular form. It has a vitreous to pearly luster and a translucent to transparent appearance. Fedotovite is known for its relatively moderate hardness, measuring around 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale.
Fedotovite is primarily found in hydrothermal veins, often associated with quartz and other zeolite minerals. It is commonly discovered within cavities in volcanic rocks or hydrothermal alteration zones. Its specific occurrence is limited to a few locations in Russia, including the Kamchatka Peninsula and Murmansk Oblast.
Due to its rarity and limited distribution, fedotovite holds some significance in the field of mineralogy. It is often sought after by collectors and researchers due to its interesting crystal structure and chemical composition. Additionally, its occurrence in volcanic environments provides insights into the geological processes involved in its formation.
Etymology of FEDOTOVITE
The word "Fedotovite" derives from the surname Fedotov, which is of Russian origin. The suffix "-ite" is often added to the end of mineral names to indicate that it is a mineral species. Therefore, "Fedotovite" is a mineral species named after a person with the surname Fedotov.
