Kornelite is a rare mineral that is often mistaken for ilmenite due to its similar appearance. Its spelling, however, differs greatly from ilmenite. Kornelite is spelled with a "k" instead of an "i" and is pronounced as [kawr-nuh-lahyt]. The "k" in kornelite is because it is named after the German mineralogist, Johann R. Korn, who first discovered it. The "e" at the end of the word signifies that it is a mineral, following the naming convention of many other minerals.
Kornelite is a rare and specific mineral that belongs to the hydrotalcite group. It is named after the German mineralogist Friedrich Johann Karl Corneli, who first discovered and described it in 1852. Kornelite is typically found in a cryptocrystalline form, which means that its crystals are too small to be visible to the naked eye, resulting in a compact and solid appearance.
The mineral possesses a distinctive chemical composition, primarily consisting of magnesium, aluminum, and carbonate ions. Its chemical formula can be defined as (Mg, Al)6(SO4,CO3)(OH)12·2H2O. Kornelite typically forms as a secondary mineral in highly altered magnesium-rich basaltic rocks or sedimentary environments, often found in association with other hydrated magnesium minerals such as serpentine and brucite.
Kornelite exhibits a pale yellow, greenish-white, or white coloration and has a pearly to waxy luster. It has a perfect cleavage on the basal plane, which means it can be easily separated into thin, flexible sheets. The mineral is insoluble in water and exhibits a Mohs hardness ranging between 2 and 3.
Due to its scarcity and lack of practical applications, kornelite is primarily of interest to mineral collectors and scientists studying the formation of minerals in specific geological environments. Its unique crystal structure and chemical composition contribute to ongoing research in the field of mineralogy and can assist in understanding geological processes and the formation of hydrothermal mineral deposits.