Calamaite
Calamaite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the sulfate class, with the chemical formula Na₂TiO(SO₄)₂·2H₂O.
It crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system (space group Ibam).
Key properties: Mohs hardness 3; specific gravity 2.45; Vitreous luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Clm, IMA status: approved, named in 2016.
Found as a secondary mineral in the weathering zone of a pyrite deposit. The result of the oxidation of pyrite under the extremely arid conditions of the Atacama Desert.
It is found associated with Coquimbite, römerite, metavoltine, tamarugite, halotrichite, szomolnokite, rhomboclase, ferrinatrite, krausite.
The name refers to Calama commune and Calama city, the capital of El Loa province, where the first specimens were collected.