Yagiite
An osumilite-group silicate found in the silicate inclusions of a IIE iron meteorite.
Key facts
- Formula
- (Na,K)3Mg4(Al,Mg)6(Si,Al)24O60
- Family
- Silicates
- Crystal system
- Hexagonal
- First described
- the Colomera iron meteorite, 1969
Yagiite was first described in 1969 from silicate inclusions in the Colomera iron meteorite, found in Spain. It is named after Kenzo Yagi, a Japanese mineralogist. It is known only from meteorites.
What it is
Yagiite is a silica-rich, alkali-bearing silicate of the osumilite group, a relative of roedderite and merrihueite with much more aluminium.
Where it is found
It occurs in the silicate inclusions of Colomera, a IIE iron. These inclusions are thought to be melted rock that was mixed into molten metal during an impact on the parent body.
How it is recognised
It is microscopic and identified by electron microprobe and X-ray analysis.
Did you know?
Colomera also holds unusual large crystals of sodium- and potassium-rich feldspar.
IIE irons contain some of the most varied silicate inclusions of any iron meteorites.