Kämmererite - Encyclopedia

    Class : Silicates
    Subclass : Phyllosilicates
    Crystal system : Monoclinic
    Chemistry : Mg₅(Al,Cr)₂Si₃O₁₀(OH)₈
    Rarity : Very rare

Kämmererite is a superb variety of clinochlore, whose sumptuous pink-red to purplish-red color is due to the presence of chromium. Remember that clinochlor is the most widespread mineral of the group of chlorites, common phyllosilicates of magnesium, iron, aluminium, etc... It is the magnesian term of the group, which constitutes a series with the ferriferous term : chamosite. Its name was given in honor of A. A. Kämmerer, mine manager in Russia. It is found in chromite deposits, especially those associated with serpentinized dunites. Kämmererite occurs in small, stocky crystals of pseudohexagonal to pseudorhombohedral appearance. It is a rare mineral appreciated by collectors which, when massive, can constitute interesting ornamental materials for the cutting of cabochons and carved objects.

Kämmererite is reported in certain serpentinized peridotites from Auvergne near Azerat (Haute-Loire) and Champagnat-le-Jeune (Puy-de-Dôme).

No twin reported for this mineral species.

No fake inventories for this mineral species.