European Journal Reports Three New Minerals and Process Insight

The newest volume of the European Journal of Mineralogy contains three studies that advance both mineral identification and ore‑processing knowledge.¹ First, Thomas Daniel van Gerve et al. examined how microscopic exsolution textures within Fe–Ti oxides affect crushing strategies for vanadium and titanium pre‑concentration. Their work demonstrates that certain textures tightly intergrow minerals and hinder separation, while others form coarser structures that improve processing through magnetic and flotation methods; recognizing these patterns is essential to optimize resource use.¹

Second, Cristian Biagioni, Jiří Sejkora, and Zdeněk Dolníček reported Belmonteite (CaMn₂(AsO₄)₂(H₂O)₅·2H₂O), a new arsenate mineral found in the Mn ore deposits of Graveglia Valley, eastern Liguria, Italy. Its crystal structure consists of {010} layers where six‑fold coordinated manganese atoms are decorated by (AsO₄) groups and calcium atoms connected via hydrogen bonds. The mineral formed as As‑rich oxidizing fluids circulated within the deposit, and it was named after Donato Belmonte to honor his contributions to Ligurian mineralogy.¹

Third, Yongfei Tian et al. described Fengruiite, a newly discovered Ag–Sb–Te sulfosalt from the Haopinggou Ag–Pb–Zn–Au deposit in eastern Qinling, China. Using microscopy, chemical analysis, and crystal‑structure tests they identified its unique tellurium‑rich framework, which helped trap and concentrate silver during hot mineral‑forming fluid conditions—offering fresh clues on how silver‑rich deposits form.¹

This issue therefore adds two new species to the mineral catalogue while also providing practical insights into ore processing.