Benauite
Benauite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the phosphate class, with the chemical formula SrFe³⁺₃(PO₄)(PO₃OH)(OH)₆.
It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system (space group R-3m). It is a member of the Alunite-crandallite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 3.5; specific gravity 3.65; Yellowish streak; Vitreous to resinous luster; optically uniaxial.
IMA symbol Bnu, IMA status: approved, named in 1995.
Found as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zone of a hydrothermal polymetallic barite–fluorite deposit.
It is found associated with Kidwellite, fluorite, goethite.
The name refers to the Benauer Berg, Germany, near which the Clara mine is situated.
Index entry. This entry combines official IMA/RRUFF species data with published physical-property data — a full written entry hasn’t been published yet.
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