ZANAZZIITE, ROSE QUARTZ, ROSCHERITE, Lavra da Ilha pegmatite Taquaral Minas Gerais BRAZIL (miniature)

Zanazziite is a complex hydrated phosphate mineral classified within the roscherite group, characterized as a magnesium beryllium phosphate. This mineral typically forms barrel-shaped crystals that can grow up to 4 mm in size and is often found in association with quartz. Its primary location is in the crevices of the Lavra da Ilha pegmatite, situated near Taquaral in northeastern Minas Gerais, Brazil. The mineral is named in honor of Pier F. Zanazziite and has a chemical formula of Ca2Mg5Be4(PO4)6(OH)4·6H2O. Recent analyses using an ARL-SEMQ microprobe have identified its composition, revealing elements such as phosphorus, manganese, and various other oxides, with specific concentrations measured through techniques like atomic absorption spectrophotometry and titration. Zanazziite is part of the roscherite group, which is defined by the dominant cation in the Me-site, with valid species including Roscherite, Zanazziite, and Greifensteinite, all sharing a common structural formula that allows for the substitution of different cations.