Cortlandtite: The Rare Mineral with a Unique Crystal Structure

Cortlandtite is a rare mineral species that was discovered in 1972 in the Cortlandt, New York area. It is a member of the phosphate mineral group and has the chemical formula Ca3(PO4)2.

Cortlandtite is known for its unique crystal structure, which is composed of layers of phosphate tetrahedra (PO4) that are arranged in a three-dimensional framework. This structure gives cortlandtite its characteristic hexagonal crystal form and high lattice parameter.

Cortlandtite is typically found in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, where it forms as a result of the alteration of primary magmatic minerals such as apatite and monazite. It is also found in metamorphic rocks, such as mica schist and biotite gneiss.

Cortlandtite is considered a rare mineral due to its limited occurrence in nature and its difficulty in identifying and distinguishing from other phosphate minerals. It is highly sought after by collectors and mineralogists due to its unique crystal structure and rarity.

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