Bubnovaite
Bubnovaite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the sulfate class, with the chemical formula K₂Na₈Ca(SO₄)₆.
It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system (space group P31c). It is a member of the Aphthitalite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 2–3; specific gravity 2.656; White streak; Vitreous luster; optically uniaxial.
IMA symbol Bub, IMA status: approved, named in 2014.
Occurs as sublimate incrustations and/or products of reaction between rock and volcanic gas on the surface of basalt scoria in an active fumarole.
It is found associated with Aphthitalite, thénardite.
The mineral was named to honor Russian scientist, Professor Rimma Sergeevna Bubnova (b. 1951), Institute of Silicate Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St-Petersburg State University, Russia.