GORCEIXITE Meaning and
Definition
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Gorceixite is a mineral belonging to the group of phosphates. It is a fairly rare mineral and is commonly found in association with other minerals such as apatite and quartz. Gorceixite receives its name from José Vieira Couto de Magalhães Gorceix, a Brazilian geologist.
The mineral has a unique crystal structure featuring a combination of octahedral and tetrahedral coordination of aluminum and phosphorus atoms. Chemically, gorceixite is classified as an aluminum iron phosphate, with the chemical formula (Fe2+,Al)3(PO4)2(OH)3·5H2O. This mineral typically displays a yellow to brownish color and can exhibit translucent to opaque characteristics. It possesses a hardness of around 3.5 on the Mohs scale.
Gorceixite is primarily found in hydrothermal veins, metamorphic rocks, and granite pegmatites. It is often associated with minerals like lazulite, heterosite, and jahnsite. Additionally, gorceixite can be found in mineralized granite cavities or as secondary mineral deposits resulting from the alteration of primary phosphates.
While gorceixite does not possess any significant industrial applications, it is of interest to mineral collectors and researchers for its unique crystal structure and occurrence. Its formation and distribution provide valuable insights into the geological processes involved in the formation of hydrothermal deposits and the alteration of phosphates.
