Chukochenite
Chukochenite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the oxides & hydroxide class, with the chemical formula (Li₀.₅Al₀.₅)Al₂O₄.
It crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system (space group Imma). It is a member of the Spinel structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 8; specific gravity 3.771; Vitreous luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Ckc, IMA status: approved, named in 2020.
Of hydrothermal origin in mineralized skarn at the exocontact of a granite pluton.
It is found associated with Fluorite, phlogopite, chrysoberyl, margarite, chlorite, ferronigerite-2N1S, zinconigerite-2N1S.
The mineral was named to honor Chu Kochen (1890-1974), Chinese scientist and educator, the inaugurator of historical climatology, the leader of the “long march of academics.