Merrihueite
An iron-rich osumilite-group silicate found in a primitive ordinary chondrite.
Key facts
- Formula
- (K,Na)2(Fe,Mg)5Si12O30
- Family
- Silicates
- Crystal system
- Hexagonal
- First described
- the Mezö-Madaras chondrite, 1966
Merrihueite was first described in 1966 from the Mezö-Madaras ordinary chondrite, which fell in Romania in 1852. It is named after Craig Merrihue, an American meteorite scientist who died young.
What it is
Merrihueite is the iron- and potassium-rich partner of roedderite in the osumilite group. It is rich in silica and alkali metals.
Where it is found
It was found as small grains with glass in a chondrule-bearing clast in Mezö-Madaras, a very primitive L3 chondrite. Such alkali-rich minerals show that chondrule melts could hold surprising amounts of sodium and potassium.
How it is recognised
It is microscopic and identified with an electron microprobe and X-ray methods.
Did you know?
Mezö-Madaras is one of the least heated ordinary chondrites known.
Merrihueite and roedderite form a continuous series in which iron and magnesium swap places.