REDGILLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Redgillite, also known as sodium hexahydroxostannate, is a mineral belonging to the class of hydroxides, specifically hydroxyl compounds of tin. It is an incredibly rare and unique mineral that is chemically composed of sodium, hydrogen, oxygen, and tin. The name "redgillite" is derived from its distinct reddish color and its original discovery in Gill mine located in Cornwall, England.
Redgillite forms as crusts and coatings on the surfaces of tin-bearing veins and occasionally as delicate, hair-like fibers. It possesses a characteristic reddish hue that ranges from deep red to pale pink, and its luster is typically vitreous to earthy. This mineral has a Mohs hardness of around 2 to 3, indicating its relatively low scratch resistance.
Due to its scarcity and limited occurrences, redgillite is primarily sought after by collectors and researchers for its aesthetic appeal and scientific significance. In terms of its chemical properties, redgillite is soluble in water and often forms as a byproduct of other tin-bearing minerals reacting with moisture and atmospheric elements.
As a mineral, redgillite holds a unique place in geological research and serves as an indicator of the geological processes and environments in which it is found. Despite its rarity, redgillite has yet to gain widespread recognition beyond mineral enthusiasts and academics studying tin-related mineralogy.
