Siderite

Mineral Description

Siderite is an iron carbonate, composition FeCO₃. It is a member of the Carbonate mineral group. Both Mn²⁺ and Mg²⁺ substitute for Fe and a solid solution exists between siderite, rhodochrosite (MnCO₃) and magnesite (MgCO₃).

Highlighting Features

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Iron (Fe) atoms
Carbonate polyanions
A single carbonate polyanion
Single unit cell
All atoms

Occurence and Use

Siderite occurs as clay ironstone, an impure mixture of siderite with clay minerals. It may form concretions or concentric layers. It may also occur as black-band ore, whihc can form extensive stratified beds admixed with shales, other carbonates, and coal. Siderite is also formed as iron rich waters replace Ca in limestone. Finally, it is a common vein mineral associated with various metallic ores, including the Precambrian banded iron formations.

Importance in Soil Environments

Siderite may occur in soils in small quantities, particularly in fens receiving iron-rich waters.

Crystallographic Data

Reference

Graf, D.L. 1961. Crystallographic tables for the rhombohedral carbonates. American Mineralogist 46:1283-1316.

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Original release: 1 Oct 1998;