Wopmayite
Wopmayite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the phosphate class, with the chemical formula Ca₆Na₃ Mn(PO₄)₃(PO₃OH)₄.
It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system (space group R3c). It is a member of the Cerite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 5; specific gravity 3.027; White streak; Vitreous luster; optically uniaxial.
IMA symbol Wop, IMA status: approved, named in 2011.
Found as a secondary mineral in a phosphate-carbonate assemblage formed after the dissolution of primary lithiophosphate by hydrothermal solutions. From a spodumene-rich boulder found in the dumps of a zoned petalite-subgroup pegmatite.
It is found associated with Rhodochrosite, quartz, whitlockite, apatite, fairfieldite, crandallite, calcite, overite, groatite, metswitzerite, sphalerite, bismuthinite.
The mineral was named to honor Wilfrid Reid “Wop” May (1896-1952) who was born in Carberry, Manitoba, Canada. “Wop” May was a pioneering aviator who created the role of the bush pilot.