Cairncrossite
Cairncrossite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the silicate class, with the chemical formula Sr₂Ca₇₋ₓNa₂ₓ(Si₄O₁₀)₄(OH)₂(H₂O)₁₅₋ₓ.
It crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system. It is a member of the Gyrolite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 3; specific gravity 2.5; White streak; Vitreous to pearly luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Ccs, IMA status: approved, named in 2013.
Formed by metasomatic alteration of a carbonate-rich manganese deposit.
It is found associated with Manganoan richterite, manganoan sugilite, lizardite, pectolite.
The mineral was named to honor Bruce Cairncross, Professor and Head of the Department of Geology, University of Johannesburg.
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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