Mineral Database (Saesneg yn unig)

Mineral Database (Saesneg yn unig)

Iridium

Crystal System: Cubic
Formula: Ir
Status of Occurrence: Unconfirmed Occurrence
Distribution: Rare
Chemical Composition: Native iridium
Method(s) of Verification: not known.
Chemical Group:
  • Elements & Alloys
Geological Context:
  • Igneous/metamorphic extraterrestrial
  • Hydrothermal
  • Igneous
Introduction: iridium occurs with other platinum-group metals in magmatic deposits and occasionally in certain hydrothermal vein associations. It is also found in iron meteorites.
Occurrence in Wales: iridium is one of a number of minerals that were reported from the Dolgellau Gold-belt by T.A. Readwin; in this case the occurrence of platiniridium was cited by Andrew (1910) without reference to the specific Readwin source. As with many of these minerals, it has not been observed since. Given the amount of work done in the area in the past 90 years it is necessary to treat this report with caution.
Key Localities:
There are no key localities for this specimen.
References:
  • Andrew, A.R., 1910 The geology of the Dolgelley gold-belt, North Wales.  Geological Magazine, 47, 159-171, 201-221, 261-271.