Ferroselite

Orthorhombic ferroselite and its isometric polymorph dzharkenite are iron selenides of general formula FeSe2 precipitated under reducing conditions in anoxic environments. They are a source of selenium in the Rocky Mountains where selenium occurrence is associated with Upper Cretaceous shale deposits.

Ferroselite/Dzharkenite
Ferroselite found in Argentina
General
CategorySelenide mineral
Formula
(repeating unit)
FeSe2
IMA symbolFse
Strunz classification2.EB.10a
Crystal systemOrthorhombic
Space groupPnnm (no. 58)
Identification
ColorSteel-gray to tin-white with a rose tint, brass yellow
Crystal habitAcicular prismatic
TwinningStellate and cruciform twins common
Mohs scale hardness6 – 6.5
LusterMetallic
StreakBlack
Specific gravity7.20
Refractive indexOpaque
PleochroismDistinct
Solubilityinsoluble in water
References

In the frame of safety assessment calculations made for deep disposal of high-level radioactive waste, ferroselite and dzharkenite are also considered in geochemical calculations as one of the mineral phases limiting the solubility of Selenium-79.

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