Beusite , Lithiophilite Locality: La Empleada Pegmatite, Coronel Pringles Department, San Luis, Argentina Dimensions: 50 mm x 45 mm x 16 mm Description: Massive brown Beusite with dark Lithiophilite; Analyzed by Ricardo Scholz; Photo and collection Fernando Brederodes — Photo: Fernando Brederodes · Public domain
Beusite
Beusite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the phosphate class, with the chemical formula Mn²⁺Mn²⁺₂(PO₄)₂.
It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system (space group P2_1/c). It is a member of the Graftonite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 5; specific gravity 3.6–3.7; Pale pink or brown streak; Vitreous luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Beu, IMA status: approved, named in 1968.
A late-stage accessory mineral in complex granite pegmatites. As euhedral inclusions in troilite nodules in an iron meteorite.
It is found associated with Lithiophilite or triphylite (pegmatites); troilite, sarcopside (iron meteorite).
The mineral was named to honor Dr. Alexey Alexandrovich Beus, Professor of Mineralogy and Geochemistry, Moscow Polytechnical Institute, for his work on minerals of this group.