Mineral Origin Research Articles

Forensic characterization of Brazilian gemstones: A pilot study employing raman spectroscopy and multivariate analysis.

Forensic gemstone analysis faces many challenges. One of the most critical aspects of gemological research is the classification of a gemstone. It is necessary to understand the mineral species, purity, origin, and identification of treatments to identify and classify a gem correctly, as well as assign a monetary value to it. However, the identification methodology must be neither destructive nor invasive to the material. Raman spectroscopy offers several advantages, such as fast, non-destructive analysis, requiring little material, being fully reproducible, and requiring no sample preparation. Furthermore, the development of portable Raman spectrometers allows the analysis to be carried out anywhere. Fourteen Brazilian gemstones (agate, amazonite, amethyst, yellow calcite, orange calcite, citrine, hematite, yellow jasper, tiger's eye, onyx, blue quartz, rose quartz, green quartz, and sodalite) were analyzed using the TacticID N 785 nm portable Raman system. For each of the fourteen types of gemstones, three fragments of rough and three polished gemstones were analyzed. Three spectra of each piece in different faces were taken, totaling nine spectra for each species and 252 spectra in all. We used one univariate technique (Pearson correlation coefficient) and one classificatory technique-Soft Independent Modelling of Class Analogy (SIMCA) to evaluate the spectra. Results showed that the univariate method was not able to discriminate the classes. However, SIMCA analysis showed promising results for classification. These results were achieved after removing outliers and making a variable selection. More specifically, some samples presented anomalous behavior due to the nature of the technique applied. Some regions of the spectrum did not offer information, or that information was redundant; because of these, it was removed. This suggests that Raman spectroscopy and multivariate methods can be essential tools for classifying gemstones, not only Brazilian ones but of any origin.

Coupled antimony and sulfur isotopic composition of stibnite as a window to the origin of Sb mineralization in epithermal systems (examples from the Kremnica and Zlatá Baňa deposits, Slovakia)

AbstractStibnite is a relatively common mineral in epithermal deposits, with little known about Sb transport and efficient stibnite precipitation. The famous Kremnica Au-Ag low-sulfidation deposit and Zlatá Baňa intermediate-sulfidation Pb-Zn-Cu-Au-Ag-Sb deposit are hosted in two different Neogene volcanic fields in Western Carpathians, Slovakia. In both deposits, stibnite-rich veins occur outside of major vein structures, accompanied by illite, illite/smectite, and kaolinite alteration, and affiliated to late-stage fluids (< 2 wt% NaCl eq., < 150 °C). Sulfur isotopic composition of stibnite and sulfides is different at both deposits, likely due to a different magmatic-hydrothermal evolution of the parental magmatic chambers in the Central and Eastern Slovak Volcanic Fields. The Sb isotopes (δ123Sb), however, show similar values and trends of gradual simultaneous increase with δ34S values, explained by a progressive precipitation of stibnite and its fractionation with the fluid. The data were modeled by two coupled Rayleigh fractionation models, (for Sb and for S), assuming a predominant Sb transport in HSb2S4– with a variable amount of S species. Higher molality ratio mS/mSb of fluids was found in Kremnica (~ 3–4) than in Zlatá Baňa (~ 2). At both deposits, the heaviest δ123Sb values are accompanied by a decrease in the δ34S values probably due to the commencement of pyrite/marcasite precipitation. According to thermodynamic models of solubility of Sb(III) complexes and observations from active geothermal fields, stibnite precipitation was triggered by temperature decrease accompanied by mixing with a mildly acidic fluid (pH 4–5) of a steam-heated CO2-rich condensate on margins and in the final stages of epithermal systems. The proposed model for the origin of stibnite-bearing veins in epithermal systems can be used for their better targeting and efficient mineral exploration.

Pyrochlore-Supergroup Minerals and Their Relation to Columbite-Group Minerals in Peralkaline to Subaluminous A-Type Rare-Metal Granites with Special Emphasis on the Madeira Pluton, Amazonas, Brazil

Niobium (Nb) and tantalum (Ta) are quoted as “strategic” or “critical” elements for contemporaneous society. The main sources of Nb and Ta are minerals of the pyrochlore supergroup (PSGM) and the columbite group (CGM) mined from different magmatic lithologies. Textures and chemical compositions of PSGM and CGM often provide key information about the origin of NbTa mineralization. Therefore, we decided to carry out a detailed study of the relations between the PSGM and CGM and their post-magmatic transformations, and the Madeira peralkaline pluton (Brazil) is an ideal object for such a study. Textures of the PSGM and CGM were studied using BSE imaging and SEM mapping, and their chemical compositions were determined using 325 electron microprobe analyses. Pyrochlore from the Madeira granite can be chemically characterized as Na, Ca-poor, U- and Pb-dominant, and Sn- and Zn-enriched; REE are enriched only during alteration. Two stages of alteration are present: (i) introduction of Fe + Mn, with the majority of them consumed by columbitization; (ii) introduction of Si and Fe, and in lesser amounts also Pb and U: Si, Pb, and U incorporated into pyrochlore, iron forming Fe-oxide halos around pyrochlore. During both stages, F and Na decreased. In the case of a (nearly) complete pyrochlore columbitization, U and Th were exsolved to form inclusions of a thorite/coffinite-like phase. In contrast to altered pyrochlores from other localities, pyrochlore from Madeira shows a relatively high occupancy of the A-site. Although Madeira melt was Na-, F-rich, contemporaneous crystallization of cryolite consumed both elements and pyrochlore was, from the beginning, relatively Na-, F-poor.

Micrographic image of air pollutants in Poland

The subject of studies was one-year-old needles of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), collected from various characteristic landscape zones of Poland, reflecting different conditions of air pollutant emission and deposition (Integrated Monitoring of the Natural Environment base stations, industrial centers, and large cities). Analyses were carried out using a Quanta 250 FEI scanning electron microscope equipped with an EDAX Genesis X-ray spectroscopy microanalyzer. The needle surfaces were examined to identify natural structures (e.g., stomata, pollen, fungi) and anthropogenic structures (e.g. particulates with heavy metals) under conditions of diversified anthropopressure. In samples from areas with no significant local pollution sources (Wigry, Borecka Forest, Parsęta, Tuchola Forest), particles of mineral origin (resulting from rock weathering) containing Si, Al, Ca were identified. Needles collected in Roztocze, Łysogóry, Kampinos and Karkonosze, contained round technogenic particles (spherules) containing Fe, Al and Si, which had traveled significant distances. In Katowice, Poznań and Kraków, particles deposited on the bioindicators’ surfaces were composed of Ca, Si, Al, Fe, Cu, and other heavy metals. Micrographs obtained from the analysis were used to develop a model for identifying air pollutants using artificial intelligence.

A New Synthetic Analogue Of The Burckhardtite Mineral, Pb2TeGa[AlSi3O8]O6: Synthesis, Structure, And Properties.

The mineral, Burckhardtite, Pb2TeFe[AlSi3O8]O6, is synthesized and characterized. A new analogue, Pb2TeGa[AlSi3O8]O6, is successfully prepared for the first time under laboratory conditions. The substitution of Ga3+ by Ti0.5M0.5 (M=Co2+, Ni2+) results in new compounds with the Burckhardtite mineral structure. The transition metal-containing compounds exhibit interesting new colors, partly resulting from d-d transitions and metal-to-metal charge transfer (MMCT) transition. The Ga compound shows a deep UV cut-off (~86 %), which is one of the better known values of deep UV cut-off compounds. The compounds exhibit good dielectric behavior with low dielectric loss. The Eu3+ - substituted samples show deep red emission with a long lifetime of ~0.89 ms. The magnetic behavior of the transition metal containing compounds indicates anti-ferromagnetic interactions. The successful synthesis of the naturally occurring mineral along with newer analogues with interesting properties suggests that it is profitable to investigate compounds of mineral origin.

Highly efficient resource recovery from polymetallic sulfide ores under neutral-alkaline conditions: Chemical oxidation and coordination leaching

Nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and copper (Cu) are commonly co-associated in polymetallic sulfide ores, which typically contain substantial amounts of Ca and Mg as alkaline gangue. This composition presents significant challenges for economic recovery via conventional flotation-pyrometallurgical or acidic leaching techniques. This study introduces a novel neutral-alkaline lixiviant system based on the principle of “oxidation-coordination” to recover valuable metals from alkaline gangue-type polymetallic sulfide ores. Under optimal leaching conditions, the leaching extents of Ni, Co, and Cu from Jinchuan ore (200-mesh) achieved 87.7%, 81.5%, and 74.7%, respectively, whereas the dissolution rates of Ca and Mg impurities were limited to only 2.2–5.2%. During the ore oxidation stage, the advanced oxidation system formed by the activation of peroxydisulfate by both the original minerals and the leaching liquor plays a crucial role. In the coordination leaching stage, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) selectively coordinated with Ni, Co, and Cu, minimizing the dissolution of impurity metals. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the efficient and environmentally friendly utilization of alkaline gangue-type polymetallic sulfide ores.

Influence of Lubrication Water Contamination by Solid Particles of Mineral Origin on Marine Strut Propeller Shafts Bearings of Ships

Abstract The stern tube or strat bearings are key important component for safety of shipping. Modern global regulations required a low as possible negative impact on environment including lubricants leaking to the sea. The ship owners are looking for reliable and durable solutions. The costs of each ship components are carefully studied. The water lubricated bearings for ship propeller shafts are an environmentally friendly solution. That is the reason why water lubrication is an interesting option to consider. Because simplicity of the ship design is expected the open lubricating system with only one seal module, when sea water is a lubricant is often recommended by manufacturer. This research was inspired by a series of failures or premature excessive wear of the propeller shaft strut bearings of real ships. The experimental tests were conducted in the laboratory on custom designed and build test-rig. The large group of tested bearings was delivered by certified manufacturers. The results of long time wear tests clearly prove that the cause of this premature wear was abrasive wear resulting from water contamination with solid particles of mineral origin. The range of the wear strongly depends on bearing bush materials and bearing interspace geometry. The wear was low for bearings with elastic bushes especially when hydrodynamic phenomena takes place. The general conclusion is that water lubrication is an interesting option to consider when design of the ship is discussed. The simplicity resulting an attractive price, low maintenance costs and proven durability and reliability of some bearings materials cause that this technology is becoming popular and often applied.

Use of Homeopathy in Chronic Diseases of Veterinary Interest: a Literature Synthesis

Introduction: Homeopathy is a science that uses substances from plant, animal, mineral, or biotherapeutic origin, with the aim of stimulating the body's self-healing after a specific pharmaceutical procedure. This science is currently making great progress in veterinary medicine, especially due to the advantages that include lower cost, easy administration, and can be delivered via drinking water or food, avoiding the stress of restraining the animal or a traumatic application of the medication. Despite this, little research has been done on the use of homeopathy in veterinary. Therefore, the aim of this synthesis is to provide information on how homeopathy could help in the treatment of chronic diseases of veterinary interest. Methodology: The present work is characterized as a literature synthesis. The search was conducted by searching keywords at “PubMed” and covering the period between January 1999 and September 2022. The following keywords were crossed: "homeopathy," "chronic diseases," "clinical outcomes," "chronic conditions," and "homeopathy feline canine." The literature listed from this first search was selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: A total of nine scientific articles related to the use of homeopathy in chronic diseases of veterinary interest were selected, and a table was created showing the results in a single plan for a didactic purpose, relating species, clinical condition, treatment, and results. Conclusion: It was possible to observe that conditions such as arthritis and hyperthyroidism present the best results with homeopathic treatments. Other conditions with positive outcomes were associated with homeopathy as a good complementary treatment. However, the lack of studies in this field shows that more studies are needed, especially randomized controlled clinical trials with low risk of bias, to establish solid evidence on the use of homeopathy in these cases.

Occurrence, Origin, and Infill Modification Effects of Minerals in Deep Coals in the Ordos Basin, China

Occurrence, Origin, and Infill Modification Effects of Minerals in Deep Coals in the Ordos Basin, China

Rasacharya Pandit Chivukula Satyanarayanasastry: A proponent of Rasa Chikitsa and a distinguished litterateur who enriched Ayurveda through Telugu literature

Abstract Alchemy has two main aspects: Rasa Chikitsa and Rasa Vada. Rasa Chikitsa refers to the therapeutic application of drugs of metal and mineral origin, animal products, and poisonous plant drugs in Ayurveda. On the other hand, Rasa Vada was a branch of chemistry in the Middle Ages concerned with changing base metals into gold and alchemy, which have been around for centuries. Saint Govinda Bhagavatpada, the mentor of Adi Sankaracharya, was a respected practitioner of Rasa Vada and wrote Rasa Hridaya Tantra, considered a pioneering work on Rasa Sastra. Rasacharya Chivukula Satyanarayana Sastry, from Andhra Pradesh, dedicated his life to mastering these two facets and gained notable recognition as a Rasa Vaidya. He was given the esteemed title of Rasacharya, following the footsteps of the renowned scientist Siddha Nagarjuna. Interestingly, no one else in Andhra Pradesh has been given this honor. However, recent discoveries suggest that Sri Bhudev Mookerji was also honored with the title “Rasacharya” for compiling the monumental publication Rasa Jala Nidhi in five volumes. This comprehensive discussion aims to shine a light on the extraordinary life and significant contributions of Rasacharya Sri Chivukula Satyanarayan Sastry, an outstanding figure in Ayurveda.

Plastic deformation and trace element mobility in sphalerite

Abstract Sphalerite (ZnS) is a sulfide found in a large variety of ore deposits and is frequently hosted in meta-morphic terranes that have undergone deformation and related recrystallization. However, the deformation mechanisms of sphalerite are still poorly understood because recrystallization evidence is barely visible under an optical microscope and may reflect complex and frequently multistage mechanisms. Furthermore, sphalerite may host up to a few thousands of parts per million of critical metals such as gallium (Ga), germanium (Ge), and indium (In). Metamorphic conditions and dynamic recrystallization may have induced local or total redistribution of these elements. Modern techniques such as electron backscattered diffraction analyses (EBSD) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) applied on sphalerite allow for the examination of grain boundaries, crystal-plastic deformation, and internal chemical diffusion, which classically reflect active deformation mechanisms. In this study, a microstructural and in situ chemical comparison between four sphalerite types (types 1, 2, 3, and 4) has been made for the first time. The four sphalerite types present different deformation imprints, although they are hosted in a similar geological setting: the Pyrenean Axial Zone and the Montagne Noire Variscan massifs (France). Based on EBSD and LIBS mapping, we describe two regional sphalerite growth stages composed of dark red crystals with polygonal shape (type 1, Bentaillou-Liat deposit) and light- to dark-brown euhedral crystals (type 3, Saint Salvy deposit). New investigation at microscale on sphalerite grains from the Saint-Salvy deposit shows late Cu-Ge-Ga enrichment not only in specific sector zonings but also along grain boundaries, growing crystal edges, and in low-angle misorientations or twin boundaries. Following a deformation event that probably occurred during the Pyrenean-Alpine orogeny, these two sphalerite mineralizations have both endured plastic deformation in a dislocation creep regime and dynamically recovered by subgrain rotation (SGR) mechanism. Two mechanisms of Cu-Ga-Ge spatial redistribution are observed and are key processes for the crystallization of Cu-Ga-Ge-rich minerals in sphalerite veins. The first mechanism involved the in situ redistribution of Cu-Ga-Ge contents from a pre-existing concentration in the sphalerite lattice (type 3, Arre deposit), creating Ge-sulfides (briartite), probably during Pyrenean-Alpine orogeny. Formation of this type of Ge-mineral may be related to solid-state diffusion processes. The second mechanism is associated with the circulation of a Cu-Ga-Ge-rich fluid in surrounding rocks. In the pre-existing polygonal sphalerite from Late-Variscan veins (type 2, Pale Bidau deposit), millimeter-size bands of small (<50 µm), recrystallized sphalerite grains are locally observed. Those domains contain inclusions of Cu (chalcopyrite) and Ga and Ge minerals (brunogeierite, carboirite). Fluid-induced diffusion in the polygonal sphalerite aggregates may occur with superimposed dynamic recrystallization, such as the Late-Variscan veins (type 2, Pale Bidau-type). During post-Variscan time, this fluid enriched in Cu-Ga-Ge largely circulated in the upper-crust of this Variscan terrane. This study highlights the key importance of coupled textural (EBSD) and in situ chemical analyses (LIBS) of diverse sphalerite types at a regional scale to indirectly unravel the origin of vein mineralization, and their related critical metal distribution.

Origin of Au-Ag Mineralization in Sphalerite Ores from Data on Sphalerite Co-Crystallization with Ag and Au in Model Hydrothermal Systems

Abstract ––Au-Ag mineralization occurrences in sphalerite ores of hydrothermal genesis are paradoxical in view of the incompatibility of these elements in sphalerite. The formation of sphalerite with Au and Ag impurities under hydrothermal crystallization of ZnS at 450 °C and 1 kbar pressure was studied experimentally. Sn impurity was taken as a source of point defects in crystals modelling the interaction of Au and Ag with vacancies. The Ag solubility in low-Fe sphalerite is estimated as 3.8 ± 0.7 μg/g, Au ̶ ≤ 0.6 μg/g. The main forms of Ag and Au occurrence in sphalerite are the inclusions of (Ag, Au)xS phases with x varies mainly from 1.8 to 2.0, and Au varies from 0.01 to 0.75 a.p.f.u. The primary forms of the elements in ores might be microinclusions (Ag, Au) 1.8-2.1S or close to (Ag, Au)S at higher fS2. In presence of Sn, solubilities of Au and Ag become higher. The behavior of Au corresponds to the substitution reaction Sn4+ + Au+ + v‒ ↔ 2Zn2+ in the presence of two types of vacancy defects (v–) ‒ the “inherent” vacancies dependent on the crystallization conditions and the vacancies accompanying Sn4+ incorporation. Ag entrance is seemingly more dependent on fS2 conditions and does not correlate with Sn. The extra vacancies arise because of metastable crystallization under the conditions of oversaturation of growth medium. This is supported by the spherulite morphology of growth products and the admixture of wurtzite ZnS form. The distribution and cocrystallization coefficients show an increasing trend for both precious metals (PM), due to which Au changes from incompatible to the category of highly compatible elements in sphalerite. The geochemical environments favorable for the formation of imperfect mineral crystals are considered. Such crystals are capable to uptake PMs and other incompatible in “ideal” crystal elements because of their interaction with vacancies, both constitutional (inherent to the substance) and non-equilibrium defects, and surficial nano-sized formations (nonautonomous phases). The evolution of these initially “invisible” forms of PM under metamorphic processes and remobilization of ore substance may result in Au and Ag escape and aggregation into microparticles.

A REVIEW ON ANTIDOTE AS PER AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE

Agad tantra is a branch of Ayurevda that deals with study of poisons (animal, plant and mineral origin) and their management. Poison is a substance that destroys life and impairs the body functions. Ayurveda defines poison as Visha, the substance which causes sadness to the world is called Visha. If one attains immediate treatment, it may relieve the condition otherwise it may be fatal. Prativisha is the poison to be used as a treatment against another poison. In modern, Prativisha is comparable to an antidote. Antidotes can be defined as substances that counteract the effects of poison. The term antidote was ultimately derived from the Greek term pharmakon antidoton (medicine) given as a remedy. Many poisons and their antidotes are described in the Agad Tantra text. Common antidotes in Ayurveda are Swarna, Ghrita, Godudha and Madhu. A vaidya's primary goal is to save life of patients so the concept of antidotes is explained. In this review article, we will discuss antidotes as per Ayurvedic science.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF MANDURA VATAKA: A REVIEW

Mandura Vataka is a Herbo mineral formulation that includes a variety of medications with plant, metal, and mineral origins. Mandura Bhasma is a preparation made using iron.Pandu (Anaemia), Agnimandhaya(poor digestion), Tvaka vikara (skin conditions),Aruchi (dyspepsia) Kamala(jaundice) Phleeha and Ykritha vikara(splenic and hepatic problems) and Sodha( edema) are among the conditions it is used to treat. Mandura vataka contains Mandura as a metal, Swarnamakshika as a mineral and other herbal drugs. It includes four major process include Shodhana of Mandura and Swarna-makshika after that preparation of Mandura and Swarnmakshika Bhasma. Mandura vataka is one of the important formulation used in classics. It is considered as Pranda Panduroginaam. There are various formulation of Mandura Vataka in various samhita. In this study, we shed light on a number of Mandura Vataka references and indications and comprehend the substance's mechanism of action.

The use of environmentally friendly natural adhesives in the production of wood composite materials

In order to find out the reasons for the formation of a bond between the adhesive and the glued material, the phenomenon of wetting wood with glue was analyzed; technological factors that characterize wood, glue and gluing conditions and their influence on the quality of the adhesive joint are also analyzed; the classification of natural adhesive materials according to various characteristics is given, the operational, technological, economic and ecological requirements for glues for wood composite materials are analyzed, the comparative characteristics of the properties of animal and vegetable glues are given; the use of adhesives of animal, vegetable and mineral origin in the production of wood composite materials is analyzed.

High-Temperature SHS Heat Insulators Based on Pre-Activated Mineral Raw Materials

In this paper, the results of the technological combustion of SHS heat insulators based on mineral origins are presented. It is shown that after mechanochemical treatment of minerals—diatomite—the kinetic characteristics of the combustion process change, providing targeted formation of the phase composition, structure, and properties of the SHS composite. A positive effect of using various modifiers during the MCT of diatomite—the activation of the combustion process—was established. The selection of modifiers provides an increase in the strength of the synthesized SHS composites as a result of the formation of aluminate compounds in the synthesis products, and a decrease in thermal conductivity to 0.157 W/m*K due to the formation of the ultraporous structure of the samples.

MINERALOGICAL, PETROGRAPHIC AND GEOCHEMICAL EVIDENCE FOR ZIRCON FORMATION CONDITIONS WITHIN THE BURPALA MASSIF, NORTHERN BAIKAL REGION

This paper reports investigation on zircons from quartz syenite, alkaline and foid syenite, as well as metasomatic rock from the fenitization zone hosted by the Burpala massif. It is performed by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), cathodoluminescence (CL), laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA ICP MS), and Raman spectroscopy. Generally, all zircons from igneous rocks show rhythmic, crystal growth zoning or sector zoning (type I) except for some zircons from alkaline syenites (type II) showing patchy zoning. They systematically contain pores or cavities. The REE patterns of magmatic zircons share similar features: e.g. depletion of LREE ((Yb/La)N up to 35000), large positive Ce (Ce/Ce* 6–427) and small negative Eu (Eu/Eu* 0.37–0.93) anomalies. Zircons crystallized from quartz syenites at 830±30 °C at the early stage of rock formation, while zircons from alkaline and foid syenites crystallized at the later stage of rock formation (680–750 °C). Meanwhile, crystallization of zircons with rhythmic zoning (type I) occurs at later magmatic stage, while the formation zircons of type II is probably related to the separation of the highly fluorinated aqueous fluid from the residual melt.Zircons from fenites have a bipyramidal habit holding a heterogeneous mosaic core and a homogeneous (or rhythmic zoning) rim. The cores of zircon show flat REE patterns without significant anomalies, while the rims are characterized by noticeable fractionation of REE ((Yb/La)N 85–615) and show a positive Ce anomaly (Ce/Ce* 4–18). The Raman spectra of the cores show a higher degree of crystallinity than the rims, and their flat REE spectra are probably related to the contamination by micro inclusions. The discordant U-Pb age of 295±3 Ma was obtained for zircon rims, which is consistent with the age of formation of igneous rocks of the Burpala massif (298–291 Ma). The latter supports the syngenetic origin of metasomatic ore mineralization with the main stage of massif formation.

Studies on identification of Garudapacha - An unfamiliar raw material used in Ayurveda formulations

Introduction: The raw drugs of mineral and metallic origin are exclusively classified into different groups. There are around 70 minerals and metals described in Rasashastra. There is a rare mineral called Garudapacha used in Kerala state of India, the details of which are scarce or rather not available. It is called as veluthagarudapacha, Palgarudapacha in Malayalam language and palgarudakallu, palgaruda and garudakallu in Tamil. A brief account of shodhana and marana is also mentioned for this mineral drug. The bhasma of Garudapacha is indicated in the conditions like asthisrava (leucorrhea), netraroga (Eye disorders), asthishosha (osteoporosis) and mutrakrichra (dysuria). Materials and methods: An attempt was made in this work to collect the samples of Garudapacha from different districts of Kerala. Collected sample was examined through selected physical properties of minerals. The sample was also analysed using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM EDS). Results: Two samples of Garudapacha could be collected one each from Palakkad and Thiruvananthapuram districts of Kerala state. On examination the sample was massive, compact, brittle, translucent to opaque, white stone, with white streak, Pearly to dull luster, flat to conchoidal fracture, 2.5 to 3.5 Hardness and 2.9 to 3 specific gravity. SEM EDS analysis showed presence of magnesium, carbon, calcium and silica. Discussion and conclusion: From the physical appearance and other mineralogical features the collected sample was identified as Magnesite a carbonate of magnesium with a chemical composition of MgCO3. It was further affirmed while the sample was subjected to instrumental analysis. There was presence of magnesium, carbon and silica among which 28.74% magnesium and 6.89 % was carbon.

Selected anti-ageing properties of bee raw materials

Raw materials obtained from the natural environment: plant, mineral or animal origin, were used in ancient medicine, as well as throughout the centuries and in various geographical latitudes. Cosmetology is a relatively young field using therapeutic achievements of medicine, pharmacology, chemistry or phytotherapy. Numerous sources describe the composition and properties of raw materials produced by bees: honey, propolis (propolis), beeswax, royal jelly, bee pollen, bee venom and bee bread. Products of bee origin show a comprehensive effect of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer (cytotoxic - e.g. in the treatment of melanoma), estrogenic nature. Their physicochemical properties are used in the production of cosmetics, dermocosmetics and colour cosmetics. Raw materials produced by these insects are a very valuable and rich source of active substances with proven medicinal properties, used in both conventional and folk medicine and increasingly in cosmetics, and can be safely used in care, excluding people who have experienced a hypersensitivity reaction to bee products. In cosmetology, a holistic approach to care forces the search for the most optimal methods that affect the maintenance of the proper physiological state of the body, and thus delay the progressive aging process of the body. Professional, but also everyday anti-aging care, should be primarily focused on the use of products that have a beneficial effect on maintaining the function of the skin barrier, protect the skin from free radicals, stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and intercellular matrix - improving the elasticity and firmness of the skin, protect against the formation of pigment changes, strengthen the immune function of the skin and have a beneficial effect on the strengthening of the endothelium of the skin vessels and with the content of substances acting similarly to botulinum toxin. The cosmetics industry, in line with the current trend focused on ecology and a healthy lifestyle, is constantly expanding its offer with products containing natural raw materials, especially those of bee origin. The article presents a review of current literature published in the last decade (2014-2024) available in scientific databases.

Newly identified uranyl vanadate mineral formation in the Thrace Basin, NW Türkiye: Insights into identification and origin of carnotite and tyuyamunite minerals

The Thrace Basin is located in the northwest of Türkiye, bounded by the Rhodope Zones to the west, the Strandja (Istranca, Strandzha) Massif to the North, and the İstanbul Zone to the east. The Stranja Massif’s basement is composed of the Tekedere Group, which includes Paleozoic gneisses and schists, as well as the Şeytandere Metagranite, consisting of altered and unaltered metagranites. Unaltered metagranites are characterized by large feldspar crystals and are typically white and pink in color, while altered metagranites are typically yellow color. The subject of this study Şeytandere metagranites which the uraninite mineral, for the first time, was identified in unaltered metagranite samples, while carnotite and tyuyamunite minerals were identified in altered meta-granite samples. The morphologies and elemental compositions of these minerals were identified by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). The SEM-EDS analyses revealed that the major elements of carnotite [K2(UO2)2(V2O8)(H2O)3] and tyuyamunite [Ca(UO2)2(V2O8)(H2O)8] are of K, U and V and Ca, U and V, respectively. In the investigated samples carnotite has a plate-like morphology, whereas tyuyamunite shows a fibrous apperance. This investigation shows that carnotite and tyuyamunite are epigentically formed from uranyl vanadate minerals in the Şeytandere metagranite. These minerals indicate uranium leaching from granitic materials and re-deposition as fine specks in open pores by circulating meteoric water. The leached uranyl ions, combined with vanadate ions, form carnotite and tyuyamunite under weathering conditions.