Merenskyite
(Pd,Pt)(Te,Bi)2IMA symbol Mrk[1] Strunz classification 2.EA.20 Crystal system Trigonal Crystal class Hexagonal scalenohedral (3m)
H-M symbol: (3m) Space group P3m1 Unit cell a = 3.978(1) Å,
c = 5.125(2) Å; Z = 1 Identification Color White, grayish white Crystal habit Microscopic inclusions, intergrowths with other Pd–Pt minerals Mohs scale hardness 3.5 Diaphaneity Opaque Specific gravity 8.547 Pleochroism Weak, white to grayish white in air under reflected light References [2][3][4][5]
H-M symbol: (3m)
c = 5.125(2) Å; Z = 1
Merenskyite is a rare telluride / bismuthinide mineral with the chemical formula (Pd,Pt)(Te,Bi)2.[3][4] It is an opaque white to light gray metallic mineral that occurs as inclusions within other minerals such as chalcopyrite. It crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system.[3]
Merenskyite was first described in 1966 for an occurrence in the Merensky Reef of the Western Bushveld Igneous Complex, South Africa, and named for South African geologist Hans Merensky (1871–1952).[5]