Braggite: The Rare Mineral with a Unique Structure and History

Braggite is a rare mineral, with the chemical formula Pb2Fe3+2(PO4)2(OH)2. It was discovered in 1967 and named after the British crystallographer William Henry Bragg, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1915 for his work on X-ray crystallography.

Braggite is a phosphate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of lead deposits. It is typically found in association with other lead and iron oxide minerals, such as galena and hematite.

Braggite has a yellowish-white color and a vitreous luster. It is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of around 3.5, and it can be easily scratched or crushed. It has a distinctive crystal structure, with a layered or granular habit and a hexagonal (six-sided) crystal form.

Braggite is considered to be a rare mineral, and it is not well known outside of specialized mineralogical circles. However, it is prized by collectors for its unique properties and its association with other interesting minerals.