Lawsonbauerite is a rare mineral, named in honor of the mineralogist brothers Richard V. Lawson and Robert Bauer. It is a complex carbonate mineral that belongs to the burbankite group. The chemical formula for lawsonbauerite is NaCaMg(CO3)2, indicating that it is a carbonate compound containing sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) ions.
Lawsonbauerite typically forms in the crystal system trigonal, with prism-like or rhombohedral crystal habit. It commonly occurs as translucent to transparent crystals, which are often colorless or pale yellow in appearance. Its luster is vitreous, exhibiting a glass-like sheen, and it possesses a white to pale yellow streak.
This mineral is commonly found associated with other carbonate minerals in sedimentary environments, specifically in evaporite deposits. It usually occurs as small crystals embedded within rock formations.
Lawsonbauerite is an important mineral for scientific study and mineral collectors. Its crystal structure and chemical composition can provide valuable insights into the geological processes that occurred during its formation. Due to its scarcity and limited occurrence, lawsonbauerite crystals are usually prized by collectors and can command high prices in the mineral market.
In conclusion, lawsonbauerite is a rare carbonate mineral containing sodium, calcium, and magnesium. It forms in trigonal crystal system and is typically colorless or pale yellow. It is found in association with other carbonate minerals in sedimentary environments and holds scientific significance for geological research.
