Biotite Mica & Red Apatite - Smart Mine, Renfrew County, Ontario, Canada

Smart Mine, Renfrew County, Ontario, Canada

Renfrew County, Ontario, is renowned for its geological richness, particularly for minerals like biotite mica and red apatite. The Smart Mine, located in this region, stands out as a significant source of these minerals, offering insights into both their geological formation and potential applications.

Biotite Mica

Description:
Biotite mica is a dark, sheet silicate mineral belonging to the mica group. Known for its distinct layered structure, it exhibits a dark brown to black coloration with a vitreous to pearly luster.

Geological Formation:
Biotite in the Smart Mine occurs in igneous and metamorphic rocks, such as granite, gneiss, and schist. Its presence is indicative of high-temperature and pressure conditions during rock formation.

Key Features:

• Physical Properties: Thin, flexible sheets that can be easily peeled apart.
• Chemical Composition: Potassium, magnesium, iron, aluminum silicate.
• Uses: Commonly used as an insulating material, in industrial applications, and as a mineral specimen for collectors.

Red Apatite

Description:
Red apatite, a rarer variant of apatite, is prized for its vibrant coloration, ranging from pinkish-red to deep crimson hues. It is a phosphate mineral commonly associated with igneous environments.

Geological Formation:
In the Smart Mine, red apatite is typically found in pegmatitic rocks, often associated with other phosphate minerals. Its striking color is due to trace elements like manganese or rare earth elements.

Key Features:

• Physical Properties: Hexagonal crystal system with good cleavage and a glassy appearance.
• Chemical Composition: Calcium phosphate with fluorine, chlorine, or hydroxide.
• Uses:
  • Gemstone and jewelry material due to its aesthetic appeal.
  • Source of phosphorus for agricultural and industrial applications.
  • Collector’s mineral for enthusiasts.

Smart Mine: Geological and Economic Importance

The Smart Mine is a geologically significant site due to its high-quality mineral deposits, which have attracted collectors and geologists worldwide. Its combination of biotite mica and red apatite highlights its diverse mineralogy, offering both scientific interest and economic potential.

• Accessibility: Renfrew County's well-known pegmatites and mineral deposits are popular among mineralogists and collectors.
• Preservation and Mining Practices: Efforts have been made to balance mineral extraction with environmental preservation.

This specimen weighs approx. 62.1 grams.

Specimen size approx.: 57mm x 54mm x 30mm