The word "kiddcreekite" is a mineral name that may be relatively difficult to spell correctly. It is pronounced /ˌkɪdˈkrik.aɪt/ and spelled with double letters "dd" for the first syllable and "c" instead of "k" for the second syllable. The ending "-ite" indicates that this is a mineral name. Individuals interested in learning more about minerals or rock formations may find value in learning how to spell more difficult mineral names like "kiddcreekite."
Kiddcreekite is a mineral that belongs to the pyrovanadate group. It is an extremely rare mineral and is typically found in hydrothermal vein deposits associated with ore minerals like sulfides. The mineral was first discovered in the early 1970s in the Kidd Creek copper-zinc mine located in Timmins, Ontario, Canada, hence its name.
Kiddcreekite commonly occurs as tiny, thin, tabular crystals that are often found in clusters or as aggregates. The mineral is known for its distinct reddish-brown to black color and has a submetallic to vitreous luster. It displays a perfect cleavage along its crystal planes, and the hardness of kiddcreekite on the Mohs scale is typically around 4.5.
Chemically, kiddcreekite is a calcium vanadate mineral with the chemical formula Ca(V4+O)2(VO3)2(OH). Its crystal structure consists of layers of linked VO4 tetrahedra that alternate with calcium atoms and hydroxide groups. This arrangement gives kiddcreekite its characteristic properties.
Due to its rarity and limited occurrences, kiddcreekite does not have significant practical applications. However, it is highly valued among mineral collectors and researchers due to its unique crystal structure and distinct color. Its study aids in understanding the formation processes of hydrothermal vein deposits and the geological history of the Kidd Creek mine.