Nikischerite Locality: Huanuni mine, Huanuni , Dalence Province, Oruro Department , Bolivia ( Locality at mindat.org ) Size: 4.4 x 4.1 x 1.1 cm. Nikischerite is the iron-rich analogue of (manganese-rich) shigaite, discovered only recently. It is named for American mineralogist and mineral dealer, Anthony J. Nikischer (b. 1949), who first analyzed the mineral. At the same time that he had gotten specimens of this new find (late 90's), so had dealer Brian Kosnar through his family's longstanding contacts in Bolivian minerals and they were also looking at this as a possible new species but had not the work done as yet. This is one of the two miniatures I had obtained from Kosnar at the time, perhaps 10 years ago. — Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky · CC BY-SA 3.0
Nikischerite
Nikischerite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the sulfate class, with the chemical formula Fe²⁺₆Al₃(OH)₁₈[Na(H₂O)₆](SO₄)₂·6H₂O.
It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system (space group R-3). It is a member of the Woodwardite, Hydrotalcite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 2; specific gravity 2.33; Pale grayish green streak; Dull to greasy luster; optically uniaxial.
IMA symbol Nik, IMA status: approved, named in 2001.
On and within clay matrix in a hydrothermal vein polymetallic tin deposit.
It is found associated with Pyrite, pyrrhotite, siderite, cronstedtite, vivianite.
The mineral was named to honor American geologist and mineral dealer Anthony (Tony) J. Nikischer (b. 1949).