Panguite
A titanium oxide rich in scandium and zirconium, from one of the oldest grains in the Solar System.
Key facts
- Formula
- (Ti,Sc,Al,Mg,Zr,Ca)1.8O3
- Family
- Oxides
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- First described
- the Allende CV3 chondrite, 2012
Panguite was described in 2012 from an ultra-refractory inclusion in the Allende meteorite. It is named after Pan Gu, a giant in Chinese myth who separated heaven and earth.
What it is
Panguite is an oxide combining titanium with scandium, aluminium, magnesium, zirconium and calcium. These are among the elements that condense first from a hot gas, so panguite belongs with the oldest solids.
Where it is found
It occurs with davisite in ultra-refractory inclusions in Allende.
How it is recognised
It is microscopic and identified by electron microscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction.
Did you know?
Its discovery was announced as a new mineral older than Earth itself.
Ultra-refractory inclusions are thought to have condensed at temperatures above about 1,500 °C.