Titanita
Titanita is a mineral with formula TiO₂, in the Silicatos (Nesosilicatos) group. This specimen comes from Mula Ghani Baba, Mohmand District, Khyber, Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Description
Aggregate of titanite crystals in a single column, like a stack of sphene discs grown along a stem, almost 'faden'-like.
About Titanita
Titanite is a calcium-titanium nesosilicate known for its sharp, wedge-shaped crystals. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it may incorporate traces of uranium and rare earths, making it valuable for geochronological studies.
About the locality
Mula Ghani Baba, in Mohmand District (Pakistan), has yielded striking titanites in recent years, often in stacked aggregates or other unusual habits. They are relatively recent and very attractive pieces within modern Pakistani material.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0658
- Composition
- TiO₂
- Name
- Titanita
- Group
- Silicatos (Nesosilicatos)
- Category
- Estélites
- Mine
- Mula Ghani Baba
- District / Municipality
- Mohmand District
- Province
- Khyber
- Region
- Pakhtunkhwa
- Country
- Pakistan
- Ex-collection
- Félix G. García
- Etymology
- Although mineralogists initially named this mineral sphene for its wedge shape, we now call it titanite after its titanium content. William Gregor first discovered the element and named it manaccanite. Years later, Martin Klaproth independently discovered the same metal and named it titanium. Upon learning of Gregor's prior work, Klaproth honestly acknowledged his colleague's priority. Consequently, Gregor kept the credit for the discovery, while Klaproth’s grand Olympian name secured lasting glory.
- Quality
- Notable
- Value trend
- Estable
Related specimens
- Anatasa — Pakistan
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- Cianita — Brasil
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- Forsterita (Grupo del Olivino | Fayalita-Forsterita) — España
- Granate (Hesonita (Grosularia)) — Italia
- Granate (Hesonita (Grosularia)) — Italia