A great deal of research has been devoted to the characterization of metal exposure due to the consumption of vegetables from urban or industrialized areas. It may seem comforting that concentrations in crops, as well as estimated exposure levels, are often found to be below permissible limits. However, we show that even a moderate increase in metal accumulation in crops may result in a significant increase in exposure. We also highlight the importance of assessing exposure levels in relation to a regional baseline. We have analyzed metal (Pb, Cd, As) concentrations in nearly 700 samples from 23 different vegetables, fruits, berries and mushrooms, collected near 21 highly contaminated industrial sites and from reference sites. Metal concentrations generally complied with permissible levels in commercial food and only Pb showed overall higher concentrations around the contaminated sites. Nevertheless, probabilistic exposure assessments revealed that the exposure to all three metals was significantly higher in the population residing around the contaminated sites, for both low-, median- and high consumers. The exposure was about twice as high for Pb and Cd, and four to six times as high for As. Since vegetable consumption alone did not result in exposure above tolerable intakes, it would have been easy to conclude that there is no risk associated with consuming vegetables grown near the contaminated sites. However, when the increase in exposure is quantified, its potential significance is harder to dismiss – especially when considering that exposure via other routes may be elevated in a similar way.

In-situ monazite Th–U–total Pb dating and zircon LA–ICP–MS depth-profiling was applied to metasedimentary rocks from the Vaimok Lens in the Seve Nappe Complex (SNC), Scandinavian Caledonides. Results of monazite Th–U–total Pb dating, coupled with major and trace element mapping of monazite, revealed 603 ± 16 Ma Neoproterozoic cores surrounded byrims that formed at 498 ± 10 Ma. Monazite rim formation was facilitated via dissolution–reprecipitation of Neoproterozoic monazite. The monazite rims record garnet growth as they are depleted in Y₂O₃ with respect to the Neoproterozoic cores. Rims are also characterized by relatively high SrO with respect to the cores. Results of the zircon depth-profiling revealed igneous zircon cores with crystallization ages typical for SNC metasediments. Multiple zircon grains also exhibit rims formedby dissolution–reprecipitation that are defined by enrichment of light rare earth elements, U, Th, P, ± Y, and ± Sr. Rims also have subdued Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* ≈ 0.6–1.2) with respect to the cores. The age of zircon rim formation was calculated from three metasedimentary rocks: 480 ± 22 Ma; 475 ± 26 Ma; and 479 ± 38 Ma. These results show that both monazite and zircon experienced dissolution–reprecipitation under high-pressure conditions. Caledonian monazite formed coeval with garnet growth during subduction of the Vaimok Lens, whereas zircon rim formation coincided with monazite breakdown to apatite, allanite and clinozoisite during initial exhumation.

Zinkgruvanite, ideally Ba4Mn2+4Fe3+2(Si2O7)2(SO4)2O2(OH)2, is a new member of the ericssonite group, found in Ba-rich drill core samples from a sphalerite+galena- and diopside-rich metatuffite succession from the Zinkgruvan mine, Örebro county, Sweden. Zinkgruvanite is associated with massive baryte, barytocalcite, diopside and minor witherite, cerchiaraite-(Al) and sulfide minerals. It occurs as subhedral to euhedral flattened and elongated crystals up to 4 mm. It is almost black, semi-opaque with a dark brown streak. The luster is vitreous to sub-adamantine on crystal faces, resinous on fractures. The mineral is brittle with an uneven fracture. VHN100 = 539 and HMohs ~4½. In thin fragments, it is reddish-black, translucent and optically biaxial (+), 2Vz > 70°. Pleochroism is strong, deep brown-red (E ⊥ {001} cleavage) to olive-pale brown. Chemical point analyses by WDS-EPMA together with iron valencies determined from Mössbauer spectroscopy, yielded the empirical formula (based on 26 O+OH+F+Cl anions): (Ba4.02Na0.03)Σ4.05(Mn1.79Fe2+1.56Fe3+0.42Mg0.14Ca0.10Ni0.01Zn0.01)Σ4.03 (Fe3+1.74Ti0.20Al0.06)Σ2.00Si4(S1.61Si0.32P0.07)Σ1.99O24(OH1.63Cl0.29F0.08)Σ2.00. The mineral is triclinic, space group P–1, with unit-cell parameters a = 5.3982(1) Å, b = 7.0237(1) Å, c = 14.8108(4) Å, α = 98.256(2)º, β = 93.379(2)º, γ = 89.985(2)º and V = 554.75(2) Å3 for Z = 1. The eight strongest X-ray powder diffraction lines are [d Å (I%; hkl)]: 3.508 (70; 103), 2.980(70; 11–4), 2.814 (68; 1–22), 2.777 (70; 121), 2.699 (714; 200), 2.680 (68; 20–1), 2.125 (100; 124, 204), 2.107 (96; –221). The crystal structure (R1 = 0.0379 for 3204 reflections) is an array of TS (titanium silicate) blocks alternating with intermediate blocks. The TS blocks consist of HOH sheets (H = heteropolyhedral, O = octahedral) parallel to (001). In the O sheet, the Mn2+-dominant MO(1,2,3) sites give ideally Mn2+4 pfu. In the H sheet, the Fe3+-dominant MH sites and AP(1) sites give ideally Fe3+2Ba2 pfu. In the intermediate block, SO4 oxyanions and eleven coordinated Ba atoms give ideally 2 × SO4Ba pfu. Zinkgruvanite is related to ericssonite and ferro-ericssonite in having the same topology and type of linkage of layers in the TS block. Zinkgruvanite is also closely compositionally related to yoshimuraite, Ba4Mn4Ti2(Si2O7)2(PO4)2O2(OH)2, via the coupled heterovalent substitution 2 Ti4+ + 2 (PO4)3- →2 Fe3+ + 2 (SO4)2-, but presents a different type of linkage. The new mineral probably formed during a late stage of regional metamorphism of a Ba-enriched, syngenetic protolith, involving locally generated oxidized fluids of high salinity.

The scientific value of old and well-preserved collections is priceless. Samples that already have been studied and described can still give very useful information. For instance, minerals with complex solid solutions like amphiboles sometimes show new compositions that are feasible because of crystal-chemistry and charge arrangements, based on the current classification scheme by Hawthorne et al. (2012) for the amphibole supergroup. In the last four years, a fruitful collaboration between the Swedish Museum of Natural History and the Department of Earth Sciences of the University of Milan has allowed the identification of new amphibole species, recognized by CNMNC-IMA. First of all, we identified hjalmarite, [ANaB(NaMn)CMg5TSi8O22W(OH)2], which is related to richterite via the homovalent substitution [B]Ca2+ → [B]Mn2+, and is the second recognized member of the sodium–(magnesium–iron–manganese) subgroup, after ferri-ghoseite. Sjögren (1891) had described a physically similar, MnO-rich sample from Långban, named “astochit”. A related amphibole, although belonging to a different subgroup, that we have formally described is potassic-richterite, [AKB(NaCa)CMg5TSi8O22W(OH)2]. It was found in a sample from the Pajsberg iron and manganese ore mines, which was originally collected by the mineralogist Lars Johan Igelström, probably in the 1850s. The most recent amphibole we have described is ferri-taramite [ANaB(NaCa)C(Mg3Fe3+2)T(Si6Al2)O22W(OH)2], found in a skarn sample from the Jakobsberg manganese mine: it was once examined by Flink (1914), who noted the unusual character of the amphibole and described it as a “strange hornblende”.

Several stainless-steel slags have been successfully employed in previous studies as substi-tutes for lime in the treatment of industrial acidic wastewaters. This study deepens the knowledge ofsuch application, by analyzing the neutralizing capacity of different slags related to their mineralcompositions. To do so, firstly the chemical and mineral compositions of all the slag samples areassessed. Then, 0.5 g, 1 g, 2 g of each slag and 0.25 g and 0.5 g of lime are used to neutralize 100 g of0.1 M HCl or HNO3 solutions. After the has neutralization occurred, the solid residues are extractedand analyzed using XRD spectroscopy. Then, the solubility of the minerals is assessed and ranked,by comparing the XRD spectra of the residues with the obtained pH values. The results showthat minerals such as dicalcium silicate and bredigite are highly soluble in the selected experimentalconditions, while minerals such as merwinite and åkermanite, only partially. Moreover, Al-rich slagsseem to perform poorly due to the formation of hydroxides, which generate extra protons. However,when the weight of slag is adequately adjusted, Al-rich slags can increase the pH values to higherlevels compared to the other studied slags.

Understanding metal scavenging by calcite in deep aquifers in granite is of importance for deciphering and modeling hydrochemical fluctuations and water–rock interaction in the upper crust and for retention mechanisms associated with underground repositories for toxic wastes. Metal scavenging into calcite has generally been established in the laboratory or in natural environments that cannot be unreservedly applied to conditions in deep crystalline rocks, an environment of broad interest for nuclear waste repositories. Here, we report a microanalytical study of calcite precipitated over a period of 17 years from anoxic, low-temperature (14 °C), neutral (pH: 7.4–7.7), and brackish (Cl: 1700–7100 mg/L) groundwater flowing in fractures at >400 m depth in granite rock. This enabled assessment of the trace metal uptake by calcite under these deep-seated conditions. Aquatic speciation modeling was carried out to assess influence of metal complexation on the partitioning into calcite. The resulting environment-specific partition coefficients were for several divalent ions in line with values obtained in controlled laboratory experiments, whereas for several other ions they differed substantially. High absolute uptake of rare earth elements and U(IV) suggests that coprecipitation into calcite can be an important sink for these metals and analogousactinides in the vicinity of geological repositories.

Earth’s crust contains a substantial proportion of global biomass, hosting microbial life up to several kilometers depth. Yet, knowledge of the evolution and extent of life in this environment remains elusive and patchy. Here we present isotopic, molecular and morphological signatures for deep ancient life in vein mineral specimens from mines distributed across the Precambrian Fennoscandian shield. Stable carbon isotopic signatures of calcite indicate microbial methanogenesis. In addition, sulfur isotope variability in pyrite, supported by stable carbon isotopic signatures of methyl-branched fatty acids, suggest subsequent bacterial sulfate reduction. Carbonate geochronology constrains the timing of these processes to the Cenozoic. We suggest that signatures of an ancient deep biosphere and long-term microbial activity are present throughout this shield. We suggest that microbes may have been active in the continental igneous crust over geological timescales, and that subsurface investigations may be valuable in the search for extra-terrestrial life.

In situ dating of K-rich minerals, e.g. micas and K-feldspar, by the Rb–Sr isotopic system is a new development made possible by the ICP-MS/MS technique. Online chemical separation of Rb and Sr is possible in an O₂-filled reaction cell, wherein a portion of the Sr reacts to SrO⁺ while simultaneously no RbO⁺ is formed. O₂ reactions provide stable analytical conditions sufficient for precise and accurate determination of Rb/Sr and Sr/Sr isotopic ratios using 80 micron laser ablation spots. However, to date <10% of the Sr reacts with O₂ as reaction gas, leaving room for improvement using more potent reaction gases. With a more efficient reactive transfer, it should be possible to obtain similar results with a smaller laser spot size, hence gaining higher spatial resolution. In this study, we have evaluated N₂O and SF₆ as reaction gases since they have previously been shown to react strongly with Sr⁺, without affecting Rb⁺. Analytical conditions, including cell parameters and reaction gas flow rate were optimized while ablating NIST SRM 610. The main reaction product is SrO⁺ for N₂O reaction and SrF⁺ for SF₆ reaction. Both gases show significantly higher reaction product formation compared to O₂ with >85% of Sr reacting with N₂O and >70% Sr reacting with SF₆; Rb does not react with either gas. As a result, the sensitivity for Sr reaction products is ∼10 times higher with N₂O and ∼8 times higher with SF₆ compared to O₂. With these more reactive gases, the error of mica isochron ages, calibrated against a newly developed nano-particulate pressed powder tablet of mica–Mg, is ∼1% using a 50 μm laser spot. Our tests show that both N₂O and SF₆ form interfering reaction products, e.g., SrOH (N₂O), SiF₃ and TiF₃ (SF₆) that are difficult to handle using single mass spectrometer instruments, but which can be overcome using MS/MS. Using SF₆ combined with H₂, it is possible to measure ⁴⁰Ca⁺ as ⁴⁰Ca¹⁹F⁺, free from interference of ⁴⁰Ar⁺ and ⁴⁰K⁺. This facilitates the dating of micas by the K–Ca isotopic system; we present the first in situ K–Ca age determination.

Garpenbergite is a new mineral (IMA2020-099) from the Garpenberg Norra mine, Hedemora, Dalarna, Sweden. It occurs with carlfrancisite and minor stibarsen, paradocrasite and filipstadite in a fractured skarn matrix of granular jacobsite, alleghanyite, kutnohorite and dolomite. Crystals are short-prismatic, up to 1.5 mm in length. They have a blackish to greyish brown colour, and are lustrous semi-opaque, with brown streak. Garpenbergite is brittle, with an uneven to subconchoidal fracture. Cleavage is distinct on {010}. Hardness ≈ 5 (Mohs) and VHN₁₀₀ = 650(40). D_calc = 4.47(1) g⋅cm⁻³ , overall n_calc = 1.85. Maximum specular reflectance values (%) obtained are 9.2 (470 nm), 9.1 (546 nm), 9.0 (589 nm) and 8.9 (650 nm). The empirical chemical formula of garpenbergite, based on electron microprobe data, is (Mn²⁺_3.97Mg_1.48Mn³⁺_0.26Zn_0.29)Σ_6.00(As_0.89Fe³⁺_0.04Mn³⁺_0.06Si_0.01)_Σ1.00(Sb_0.98Fe_0.02)_Σ1.00O₁₀[(OH)_1.99Cl_0.01]Σ_2.00. The five strongest Bragg peaks in the powder X-ray diffraction pattern [d, Å(I, %) (hkl)] are 3.05 (30) (002), 2.665 (100) (161), 2.616 (40) (301), 2.586 (25) (251) and 1.545 (45) (462). The orthorhombic unit-cell dimensions (in Å) are a = 8.6790(9), b = 18.9057(19) and c = 6.1066(6), with V = 1001.99(18) ų for Z = 4. The crystal structure was refined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data in the space-group Ibmm to R1 = 3.7% for 957 reflections. Garpenbergite, ideally Mn₆As⁵⁺Sb⁵⁺O₁₀(OH)₂, is isostructural with manganostibite, Mn₇AsSbO₁₂, but possesses a cation vacancy (□) at an octahedrally coordinated structural site; the two minerals are thus related by the exchange Mn²⁺ + 2O^2– → □ + 2(OH)^– . The presence of hydroxyl groups is supported by vibration bands at 3647 and 3622 cm⁻¹ in the Raman spectrum of garpenbergite, and by bond-valence considerations.

Kesebolite-(Ce), ideal formula CeCa₂Mn(AsO₄)[SiO₃]₃, is a new mineral (IMA No. 2019-097) recovered from mine dumps at the Kesebol Mn-(Fe-Cu) deposit in Västra Götaland, Sweden. It occurs with rhodonite, baryte, quartz, calcite, talc, andradite, rhodochrosite, K-feldspar, hematite,gasparite-(Ce), chernovite-(Y) and ferriakasakaite-(Ce). It forms mostly euhedral crystals, with lengthwise striation. The mineral is dark grayish-brown to brown, translucent, with light brown streak. It is optically biaxial (+), with weak pleochroism, and n_calc = 1.74. H = 5–6 and VHN₁₀₀ = 825. Fair cleavage is observed on {100}. The calculated density is 3.998(5) g/cm^-3. Kesebolite-(Ce) ismonoclinic, P2₁/c, with unit-cell parameters from X-ray single-crystal diffraction data: a = 6.7382(3), b = 13.0368(6), c = 12.0958(6) Å, beta = 98.578(2) degr., and V = 1050.66(9) Å3, with Z = 4. Strongest Braggpeaks in the X-ray powder pattern are: [I(%), d(Å) (hkl)] 100, 3.114 (20-2); 92, 2.924 (140); 84, 3.138(041); 72, 2.908 (014); 57, 3.228 (210); 48, 2.856 (042); 48, 3.002 (132). The unique crystal structure wassolved and refined to R1 = 4.6%. It consists of 6-periodic single silicate chains along (001); these are interconnected to infinite (010) strings of alternating, corner-sharing MnO₆ and AsO₄ polyhedra, altogether forming a trellis-like framework parallel to (100).

Muonionalustaite, ideally Ni₃(OH)₄Cl₂·4H₂O, is a new mineral species (IMA 2020-010), found as a terrestrial weathering product of the Muonionalusta iron meteorite, in a fragment excavated 1.5 km NE of Lake Kitkiöjärvi. Muonionalustaite occurs in cavities of corrosion crust, associated with taenite, goethite, maghemite, amorphous Fe-Ni oxy-hydroxides and soil mineral particles. The mineral is green in colour and transparent. It occurs as lath-like crystals up to ca. 5 μm, elongated along [010] and flattened on {001}, forming aggregates and thin crusts. The calculated density and overall refractive index are 2.67(1) g·cm^-3 and 1.68, respectively. An empirical formula from point analyses is (Ni_2.88Fe_0.02S_0.02Al_0.01Si_0.01)Σ_2.94(OH_3.73Cl_2.27)Σ_6.00·4H2O. The crystal structure was refined in the space-group C2/m from powder X-ray diffraction data to RBragg = 3.55%. The monoclinic unit-cell parameters are a = 15.018(3) Å, b = 3.1490(6) Å, c = 10.502(3) Å, β = 101.535(15)º and V = 486.62(19) Å3 for Z = 2. Muonionalustaite is isostructural with the synthetic compounds Ni3(OH)3.9Cl2.1·4H2O and Mg3(OH)4Cl2·4H2O. The strongest X-ray diffraction lines are [I(%), d(Å), hkl]: 100, 10.30, 001; 67, 5.49, 201; 31, 3.868, 202; 30, 7.36, 200 and 25, 2.409, 60-2. Raman spectra show prominent bands at 3624, 3612, 3571 and 3507 cm^-1, respectively, related to O–H-stretching vibrations of OH- groups, and in the region 450–530 cm^-1 representing metal–O(H) vibration modes.

Fluorbritholite-(Nd), ideally Ca₂Nd₃(SiO₄)₃F, is an approved mineral (IMA 2023-001) and constitutes a new member of the britholite group of the apatite supergroup. It occurs in skarn from the Malmkärra iron mine, Norberg, Västmanland (one of the Bastnäs-type deposits in Sweden), associated with calcite, dolomite, magnetite, lizardite, talc, fluorite, baryte, scheelite, gadolinite-(Nd) and other REE minerals. Fluorbritholite-(Nd) forms anhedral and small grains, rarely up to 250 µm across. They are brownish pink, transparent with a vitreous to greasy luster. The mineral is brittle, with an uneven or subconchoidal fracture, and lacks a cleavage. In thin section, the mineral is nonpleochroic, uniaxial (-). Dcalc = 4.92(1) g·cm^-3 and ncalc = 1.795. The empirical chemical formula from electron microprobe (WDS) point analyses is (Ca_1.62Nd_0.97Ce_0.83Y_0.52Sm_0.30Gd_0.23Pr_0.17La_0.16Dy_0.11Er_0.03Tb_0.03Ho_0.01Yb_0.01)Σ_4.99(Si_2.92P0.08As_0.01)Σ_3.01O_12.00[O_0.48F_0.26(OH)_0.14Cl_0.10Br_0.02]_Σ1.00. The crystal structure of fluorbritholite-(Nd) was refined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data to R1= 0.043 for 704 unique reflections. It belongs to the hexagonal system, space group P63/m, with unit cell parameters a = 9.5994(3), c = 6.9892(4) Å, V = 557.76(5) ų for Z = 2. Fluorbritholite-(Nd) and other britholite-group minerals are a major sink for neodymium in REE-bearing skarns of Bastnäs type. 

The margarosanite group (now officially confirmed by IMA-CNMNC) consists of triclinic Ca-(Ba, Pb) cyclosilicates with three-membered [Si3O9]6- rings (3R), with the general formula AB2Si3O9, where A = Pb, Ba, Ca and B = Ca. A closest-packed arrangement of O atoms parallel to (101) hosts Si and B cations in interstitial sites in alternating layers. The 3R layer has three independent Si sites in each ring. Divalent cations occupy three independent sites: Ca in B occupies two nonequivalent sites, Ca1 (8-fold coordinated), and Ca2 (6-fold coordinated). A (=Ca2) is occupied by Pb2+ (or Ba2+) in 6+4 coordination, or 6+1 when occupied by Ca; this third site occurs within the 3R-layer in a peripheral position. Three minerals belong to this group: margarosanite (ideally PbCa2Si3O9), walstromite (BaCa2Si3O9) and breyite (CaCa2Si3O9). So far, no solid solutions involving the Ca1 and Ca2 sites have been described. Therefore, root names depend on the composition of the Ca3 site only. Isomorphic replacement at the Ca3 sites has been noted. We here report data on a skarn sample from the Jakobsberg Mn-Fe oxide deposit, in Värmland (Sweden), representing intermediate compositions on the walstromite-margarosanite binary, in the range ca. 50–70% mol.% BaCa2Si3O9. The plumbian walstromite is closely associated with celsian, phlogopite, andradite, vesuvianite, diopside and nasonite. A crystal-structure refinement (R1 = 4.8%) confirmed the structure type, and showed that the Ca3 (Ba, Pb) site is split into two positions separated by 0.39 Å, with the Ba atoms found slightly more peripheral to the 3R-layers.

Langhofite, ideally Pb2(OH)[WO4(OH)], is a new mineral from the Långban mine, Värmland, Sweden. The mineral and its name were approved by the International Mineralogical Association Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification (IMA2019-005). It occurs in a small vug in hematite–pyroxene skarn associated with calcite, baryte, fluorapatite, mimetite and minor sulfide minerals. Langhofite is triclinic, space group P1, and unit-cell parameters a = 6.6154(1) Å, b = 7.0766(1) Å, c = 7.3296(1) Å, α = 118.175(2)°,β = 94.451(1)°, γ = 101.146(1)° and V = 291.06(1) Å3 for Z = 2. The seven strongest Bragg peaks from powder X-ray diffractometry are[dobs, Å (I )(hkl)]: 6.04(24)(010), 3.26(22)(11-2), 3.181(19)(200), 3.079(24)(1-12), 3.016(100)(020), 2.054(20)(3-11) and 2.050(18)(13-2). Langhofite occurs as euhedral crystals up to 4 mm, elongated along the a axis, with lengthwise striation. Mohs hardness is ca. 2½,based on VHN25 data obtained in the range 130–192. The mineral is brittle, with perfect {010} and {100} cleavages. The calculated density based on the ideal formula is 7.95(1) g⋅cm–3. Langhofite is colourless to white (non-pleochroic) and transparent, with a white streakand adamantine lustre. Reflectance curves show normal dispersion, with maximum values 15.7–13.4% within 400–700 nm. Electron microprobe analyses yield only the metals Pb and W above the detection level. The presence of OH-groups is demonstrated with vibration spectroscopy, from band maxima present at ∼3470 and 3330 cm–1. A distinct Raman peak at ca. 862 cm–1 is related to symmetricW–oxygen stretching vibrations. The crystal structure is novel and was refined to R = 1.6%. It contains [W2O8(OH)2]6– edge-sharingdimers (with highly distorted WO6-octahedra) forming chains along [101] with [(OH)2Pb4]6+ dimers formed by (OH)Pb3 triangles. Chains configure (010) layers linked along [010] by long and weak Pb–O bonds, thus explaining the observed perfect cleavage on{010}. The mineral is named for curator Jörgen Langhof (b. 1965), who collected the discovery sample.

Ferri-taramite (IMA CNMNC 2021-046), ideally ^ANa^B(CaNa)^C(Mg₃Fe)^T(Si₆Al₂)O₂₂^W(OH)₂, occurs in skarn from the Jakobsberg manganese mine, Värmland, Sweden. Associated minerals are celsian, phlogopite, aegirine-augite, andradite, hancockite, melanotekite, microcline (var. hyalophane), calcite, baryte, prehnite, macedonite and oxyplumboroméite. Conditions of formation, close to peak metamorphism (at circa 650∘C and 0.4 GPa), include silica undersaturation, a slightly peralkaline character and relatively high oxygen fugacities. Ferri-taramite forms poikiloblastic crystals up to 5 mm and is dark brownish black with a yellowish grey streak. The amphibole is brittle with an uneven to splintery fracture. Cleavage parallel to {110} is good. Hardness (Mohs) is ∼ 6, and D_calc=3.227(5) g cm⁻³. Holotype ferri-taramite has the experimental unit formula ^A(Na_0.79K_0.16Pb_0.01)_Σ0.96^B(Ca_1.26Na_0.72Mn_0.02)_Σ2^C(Mg_2.66Mn²⁺_0.58Fe²⁺_0.16Zn_0.02Fe³⁺_1.26 Al_0.26Ti_0.06)_Σ5^T(Al_1.86Si_6.14)_Σ8O₂₂^W(OH)₂, based on chemical analyses (EDS, laser-ablation ICP-MS) and spectroscopic (Mössbauer, infrared) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. The mineral is optically biaxial (–), with α=1.670(5), β=1.680(5) and γ=1.685(5) in white light and 2V_meas=70(10)∘ and 2V_calc=70.2∘. Ferri-taramite is distinctly pleochroic in transmitted light, with X pale yellow, Y dark brown, Z yellowish brown and absorption Y>Z>X. The eight strongest reflections in the X-ray powder pattern (d values (in Å), I_rel, hkl) are 8.44, 60, 110; 3.392, 25, 131; 3.281, 39, 240; 3.140, 100, 310; 2.816, 45, 330; 2.7104, 38, 151; 1.3654, 26, 461; and 1.4451, 33, -661. Refined unit-cell parameters from single-crystal diffraction data are a=9.89596(13), b=18.015(2), c=5.32164(7) Å, β=105.003(13)∘ and V=916.38(2) ų for Z=2. Refinement of the crystal structure yielded R=2.26 % for 2722 reflections with I_o>2σ(I). The Mn²⁺ and Fe²⁺ ions show preference for the M1 and M3 octahedrally coordinated sites, whereas Fe³⁺ is strongly ordered at M2. The A-group cations, K and Na, are split over two subsites, A(m) and A(2), respectively.

Hjalmarite, ideally ^ANa^B(NaMn)^CMg₅^TSi₈O₂₂^W(OH)₂, is a new root-name member of the amphibole supergroup, discovered in skarn from the Långban Fe-Mn-(Ba-As-Pb-Sb-Be-B) deposit, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden (IMA-CNMNC 2017-070). It occurs closely associated with mainly rhodonite and quartz. It is grayish white with vitreous luster and non-fluorescent. The crystals are up to 5 mm in length and display splintery fracture and perfect cleavage along {110}. Hjalmarite is colorless (non-pleochroic) in thin section and optically biaxial (-), with α = 1.620(5), β = 1.630(5), γ = 1.640(5). The calculated density is 3.12 Mg/m³. Average VHN₁₀₀ is 782, corresponding to circa 5½ Mohs. An empirical formula, derived from EPMA analyses in combination with crystal structure refinements, is (Na_0.84K_0.16)_Σ1(Na_1.01Mn_0.55Ca_0.43Sr_0.01) _Σ2(Mg_3.83Mn_1.16Al_0.01) _Σ5(Si_7.99Al_0.01) _Σ8O₂₂(OH_1.92F_0.08)_Σ2. An infra-red spectrum of hjalmarite shows distinct absorption bands at 3673 cm^-1 and 3731 cm^-1 polarized in the α direction. The eight strongest Bragg peaks in the powder X-ray diffraction pattern are [d (Å), I (%), (hkl)]: 3.164, 100, (310); 2.837, 50, (330); 8.50, 44, (110); 3.302; 40, (240); 1.670, 34, (461); 1.448, 32, (-661); 2.727, 30, (151); 2.183, 18 (261).

Single-crystal X-ray diffraction data were collected at 298 K and 180 K. The crystal structure was refined in space group C2/m to R1=2.6% [I>2(I)], with observed unit-cell parameters a = 9.9113(3), b = 18.1361(4), c = 5.2831(5) Å, β=103.658(5)° and V = 922.80(9) ų at ambient temperature. The A and M(4) sites split into A(m) (K⁺), A(2) (Na⁺), and M(4’) (Mn²⁺) subsites, respectively. Among the octahedrally coordinated C group cations, Mn²⁺ orders strongly at the M(2) site. No significant violation of C2/m symmetry or change in the structure topology is detected at low temperature (R₁=2.1%). The hjalmarite-bearing skarn formed at peak regional metamorphism, T  ≥ 600°C, at conditions of high SiO₂ activity and relatively low oxygen fugacity. The mineral name honors the Swedish geologist and mineralogist S.A. Hjalmar Sjögren (1856–1922).

Potassic-richterite, ideally ^AK^B(NaCa)^CMg₅^TSi₈O₂₂^W(OH)₂, is recognized as a valid member of the amphibole supergroup (IMA CNMNC 2017–102). Type material is from the Pajsberg Mn-Fe ore field, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden, where the mineral occurs in a Mn-rich skarn, closely associated with mainly phlogopite, jacobsite and tephroite. The megascopic colour is straw yellow to grayish brown and the luster vitreous. The nearly anhedral crystals, up to 4 mm in length, are pale yellow (non-pleochroic) in thin section andoptically biaxial (−), with α = 1.615(5), β = 1.625(5), γ = 1.635(5). The calculated density is 3.07 g·cm⁻¹. VHN₁₀₀ is in the range 610–946. Cleavage is perfect along {110}. EPMA analysis in combination with Mössbauer and infrared spectroscopy yields the empirical formula (K_0.61Na_0.30Pb_0.02)Σ₀.₉₃(Na_1.14Ca_0.79Mn_0.07)_Σ2(Mg_4.31Mn_0.47Fe³⁺_0.20)_Σ5(Si_7.95Al_0.04Fe³⁺_0.01)_Σ8O₂₂(OH_1.82F_0.18)_Σ2 for a fragmentused for collection of single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. The infra-red spectra show absorption bands at 3672 cm⁻¹ and 3736 cm⁻¹ for the α direction. The crystal structure was refined in space group C2/m to R₁=3.6% [I >2σ(I)], with resulting cellparameters a = 9.9977(3) Å, b = 18.0409(4) Å, c = 5.2794(2) Å, γ = 104.465(4)°, V = 922.05(5) ų and Z=2. The A and M(4) sites split into A(m) (K+), A(2/m) (Na+), A(2) (Pb2+), and M(4′) (Mn²⁺) subsites, respectively. The remaining Mn²⁺ is strongly ordered at theoctahedrally coordinated M(2) site, possibly together with most of Fe³⁺. The skarn bearing potassic-richterite formed at peak metamorphism, under conditions of low SiO₂ and Al₂O₃ activities and relatively high oxygen fugacities.

Rare assemblages of Pb silicates, from skarn in the Långban and Pajsbergs mines, Värmland, Sweden, have been investigated. Minerals observed are alamosite, barysilite, jagoite, joesmithite, melanotekite, nasonite and yangite, together with common metamorphic skarn components like andradite, diopside, hematite and quartz. Jagoite likely formed from primary melanotekite and quartz under the influence of a fluid with high Cl activity. Jagoite is prone to hydrothermal alteration, producing unidentified phases in the system CaO–PbO–SiO₂–H₂O–(±Cl₂).

The Herräng mafic dykes form an E-W-trending dyke swarm within the Bergslagen lithotectonic unit of the Svecofennian orogen in east-central Sweden. They intrude the Svecofennian supracrustal rocks and early-orogenic granitoids, but are themselves cut by late Svecofennian pegmatites, and have undergone Svecofennian amphibolite-facies metamorphism, leading to their classification as ‘intraorogenic’ Svecofennian dykes. They can be assigned an age between 1870 and 1850 Ma, with metamorphism of the dykes dated at 1848 ± 13 Ma by U-Pb in titanite. Their current mineralogy is dominated by metamorphic plagioclase and amphibole, with variable amounts of quartz and biotite, and minor to accessory titanite, apatite, epidote, pyrite, magnetite, ilmenite and zircon. Textures range from massive to strongly foliated.

Twenty samples of dyke rocks from three subareas in the Roslagen region, including the Herräng type area, range in composition from basaltic to andesitic with 47 to 60 wt% SiO₂, broadly similar to the Dannemora dykes and the Avesta-Östhammar gabbros and diorites. Initial ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr ratios (at 1870 Ma) varies between 0.7026 and 0.7038, corresponding to initial ε_Sr between +5 and +21, and initial ε_Nd between -0.4 and +1.3, suggesting a slightly enriched to mildly depleted mantle source, similar to other Svecofennian mafic rocks.

The dykes dominantly show a calc-alkaline volcanic arc signature related to subduction. They formed during an extensional episode, possibly related to incipient back-arc spreading or subduction roll-back following the main early-orogenic subduction-related Svecofennian magmatism, but penecontemporaneous with amphibolite-facies metamorphism in the area.

Monteneveite, ideally Ca₃Sb⁵⁺₂(Fe³⁺₂Fe²⁺)O₁₂, is a new member of the garnet supergroup (IMA2018-060). The mineral was discovered in a small specimen belonging to the Swedish Museum of Natural History coming from the now abandoned Monteneve Pb–Zn mine in Passiria Valley, Bolzano Province, Alto Adige (South Tyrol), Italy. The specimen consists of mainly magnetite, sphalerite, tetrahedrite-(Fe) and oxycalcioroméite. Monteneveite occurs as black, subhedral crystals with adamantine lustre. They are equidimensionaland up to 400 μm in size, with a subconchoidal fracture. Monteneveite is opaque, grey in reflected light,and isotropic under crossed polars. Measured reflectance values (%) at the four COM wavelengths are 12.6 (470 nm), 12.0 (546 nm), 11.6 (589 nm) and 11.4 (650 nm). The Vickers hardness (VHN₁₀₀) is 1141 kg mm^-2, corresponding to H = 6.5–7, and the calculated density is 4.72(1) g cm^-3. A mean of 10 electron microprobe analyses gave (wt %) CaO 23.67, FeO 3.75, Fe₂O₃ 29.54, Sb₂O₅ 39.81, SnO₂ 2.22, ZnO 2.29, MgO 0.15, MnO 0.03 and CoO 0.03. The crystal chemical formula calculated on the basis of a total of eight cations and 12 anions, and taking into account the available structural and spectroscopic data, is (Ca_2.97Mg_0.03)_Σ=3.00(Sb⁵⁺_1.73Sn⁴⁺_0.10Fe³⁺_0.17)_Σ=2.00(Fe³⁺_2:43Fe²⁺_0.37Zn_0.20)_Σ=3.00O₁₂. The most significant chemical variations encounteredin the sample are related to a substitution of the type ^YSn⁴⁺ + ^ZFe^{3+  Y}Sb⁵⁺ + ^ZFe²⁺. Mössbauer data obtained at RT and 77K indicate the presence of tetrahedrally coordinated Fe²⁺. Raman spectroscopy demonstrates that there is no measurable hydrogarnet component in monteneveite. The six strongest Bragg peaks in the powder X-ray diffraction pattern are [d (Å), I (%), (hkl)]: 4.45, 100, (220); 3.147, 60, (400); 2.814, 40, (420); 2.571, 80, (422); 1.993, 40, (620); 1.683, 60, (642). Monteneveite is cubic, space group Ia-3d, with a =12.6093(2) Å, V = 2004.8(1)ų, and Z = 8. The crystal structure was refined up to R1 = 0.0197 for 305 reflections with F_o > 4σ (F_o) and 19 parameters. Monteneveite is related to the other Ca-, Sb- and Fe-bearing, nominally Si-free members of the bitikleite group, but it differs in that it is the only known garnet species with mixed trivalent and divalent cations (2:1) at the tetrahedral Z site. Textural and mineralogical evidence suggests that monteneveite formed during peak metamorphism (at ca. 600 ºC) during partial breakdown of tetrahedrite-(Fe) by reactions with carbonate, under relatively oxidizingconditions. The mineral is named after the type locality, the Monteneve (Schneeberg) mine.

Zircon ages, mineral chemistry, whole-rock major and trace element compositions, as well as Sr–Nd isotopic ratios of basaltic (basanite, basalt, and hawaiite with MgO = 3.90–10.06 and SiO₂ = 43.18–48.16) to andesitic (SiO₂ = 50.86–61.27) and rhyolitic (SiO₂ = 71.11–71.13) volcanic rocks (E-W emplaced Nallıhan volcanics) in the Lower Eocene terrestrial sedimentary units in the Central Sakarya Zone were studied and compared with those of the northerly located E-W-trending Eocene volcanic rocks (the Kızderbent Volcanics with 52.7–38.1 Ma radiometric ages) that are thought to be related to slab break-off process following the continental collision in the NW Anatolia. Zircon U–Pb ages of the Nallıhan volcanics vary from 51.7 ± 4.7 to 47.8 ± 2.4 Ma.

Clinopyroxene from the basaltic and andesitic rocks record crystallization conditions from ~ 7–8 kbars (~ 23 km) and ~ 1210 °C, to 4.5–1.5 kbars (~ 14–1.5 km) and 1110–1010 °C crystallization conditions, respectively. The olivine-bearing, high-MgO (up to 10 wt%) basaltic rocks of the Nallıhan volcanics have nepheline-normative and Na-alkaline compositions, while the andesitic to rhyolitic rocks show calc-alkaline affinity with mainly sodic character. This is the first time this type of volcanic rock has been described in this region. The initial Sr isotopic ratios of both basaltic and andesitic–rhyolitic samples from the Nallıhan volcanics are similar (~ 0.7040–0.7045), indicating that fractional crystallization processes were not accompanied by crustal contamination and that the magma chambers were likely stored within ophiolitic units. Trace element ratios suggest that the Nallıhan volcanics were derived from E-MORB- or OIB-like enriched mantle sources, while the Kızderbent volcanics had N-MORB-like depleted mantle sources. Both volcanic units were produced by partial melting of spinel-bearing (shallow) mantle sources that had undergone subduction-related enrichment processes, with the degree of enrichment having been greater for the Kızderbent volcanics.

The geochemical features of both the Nallıhan and Kızderbent volcanics are best explained as the result of slab break-off, in which the Nallıhan volcanics (located closer to the original subduction front) were produced mainly by the melting of upwelling asthenospheric mantle. Further back from the subduction front, the upwelling interacted with more highly metasomatized sub-arc mantle that underwent partial melting to produce the Kızderbent volcanics. This geodynamic scenario can be used for understanding other post-collisional slab break-off-related magmatic activities.

Despite the wide utility of apatite, Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH), in the geosciences, including tracing volatile abundances on the Moon and Mars, little is known about how the mineral responds to the extreme temperatures and pressures associated with hypervelocity impacts. To address this deficiency, we here present the first microstructural analysis and chemical mapping of shocked apatite from a terrestrial impact crater. Apatite grains from the Paasselkä impact structure, Finland, display intragrain crystal-plastic deformation as well as pervasive recrystallization—the first such report in terrestrial apatite. A partially recrystallized grain offers the opportunity to investigate the effect of shock recrystallization on the chemical composition of apatite. The recrystallized portion of the fluorapatite grain is depleted in Mg and Fe relative to the remnant non-recrystallized domain. Strikingly, the recrystallized region alone hosts inclusions of (Mg,Fe)2(PO4)F, wagnerite or a polymorph thereof. These are interpreted to be a product of phase separation during recrystallization and to be related to the reduced abundances of certain elements in the recrystallized domain. The shock-induced recrystallization of apatite, which we show to be related to changes in the mineral’s chemical composition, is not always readily visible in traditional imaging techniques (such as backscattered electron imaging of polished interior surfaces), thus highlighting the need for correlated microstructural, chemical, and isotopic studies of phosphates. This is particularly relevant for extraterrestrial phosphates that may have been exposed to impacts, and we urge the consideration of microstructural data in the interpretation of the primary or secondary nature of elemental abundances and isotopic compositions.

Laser ablation multi-collector mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS) has emerged as the technique of choice for in situ measurements of Sr isotopes in geological minerals. However, the method poses analytical challenges and there is no widely adopted standardised approach to collecting these data or correcting the numerous potential isobaric inferences. Here, we outline practical analytical procedures and data reduction strategies to help establish a consistent framework for collecting and correcting Sr isotope measurements in geological materials by LA-MC-ICP-MS. We characterise a new set of plagioclase reference materials, which are available for distribution to the community, and present a new data reduction scheme for the Iolite software package to correct isobaric interferences for different materials and analytical conditions. Our tests show that a combination of Kr-baseline subtraction, Rb-peak-stripping using βRb derived from a bracketing glass reference material, and a CaCa or CaAr correction for plagioclase and CaCa or CaAr + REE2+ correction for rock glasses, yields the most accurate and precise 87Sr/86Sr measurements for these materials. Using the analytical and correction procedures outlined herein, spot analyses using a beam diameter of 100 μm or rastering with a 50–65 μm diameter beam can readily achieve < 100 ppm 2SE repeatability ("internal") precision for 87Sr/86Sr measurements for materials with < 1000 μg g-1 Sr.

Determining the tectonic evolution and thermal structure of a tectonic unit that experiences a subduction-related pressure temperature (P-T) loop is challenging. Within a single unit, P-T conditions can vary from top to bottom which can only be revealed by detailed petrological work. We present micropetrological data from the middle section of the Cycladic Blueschist Unit (CBU) in Naxos, Greece, which indicates a different P-T loop than that for the top of the sequence. Using Zr-in-rutile and Ti-in-biotite thermometry coupled with quartz-in-garnet elastic barometry and phase equilibrium thermodynamic modeling, we identify a prograde path from 15.4 ± 0.8 kbar to 19.9 ± 0.6 kbar and from 496 ± 16 °C to 572 ± 7 °C (2σ uncertainty), equilibration during decompression at 8.3 ± 1.5 kbar and 519 ± 12 °C followed by near-isobaric heating to 9.2 ± 0.8 kbar and 550 ± 10 °C (or even 584 ± 19 °C), and a final greenschist-facies equilibration stage at 3.8 ± 0.3 kbar and 520 ± 4 °C. We compare these P-T estimates with published data from the top and also the bottom of the CBU section and find that the bottom half of the CBU on Naxos records higher peak high-pressure (HP) of about 4 kbar than the top of the unit, defining the thickness of the CBU section on Naxos to about 15 km in the Eocene. We determine that crustal thickening of up to ~15% occurs in the upper half of the CBU section during exhumation of the HP rocks in an extrusion wedge in a convergence setting. At about 30 Ma, the bottom half of the CBU was finally thrust onto the radiogenic Cycladic basement. Subsequently this bottom half of the CBU section underwent isobaric heating of 9–96 °C between c. 32–28 and 23–21 Ma. Isobaric heating occurred below the upper CBU section that thickened during decompression and commenced when HP metamorphism in the Cyclades ended. This suggests that thermal relaxation following tectonic accretion in the Cyclades controlled heating of the evolving Cycladic orogen during a tectonically quiescent period before lithospheric extension commenced by 23–20.5 Ma.

Reconstructing the original geometry of a high-pressure tectonic unit is challenging but important to understand the mechanisms of mountain building. While a single nappe is subducted and exhumed, nappe-internal thrusts may disrupt it into several subunits. The Middle-CBU nappe of the Cycladic Blueschist Unit (Hellenide subduction orogen, Greece) shows evidence of such disruption along a Trans-Cycladic-Thrust (TCT), however, the timing of this thrusting is unknown. Here, we report multi-petrological and geochronological data from the Middle-CBU nappe from the Thera and Ios islands (Greece). Using Zr-in-rutile thermometry coupled with quartz-in-garnet elastic barometry, average P–T and phase equilibrium thermodynamic modelling, we show that garnet growth in Ios occurred during prograde metamorphism at 6.7 ± 1.4 kbar to 13.0 ± 1.6 kbar and 326 ± 20°C to 506 ± 13°C (2σ uncertainty) followed by early exhumation to 10.1 ± 0.6 kbar and 484 ± 14°C and a greenschist facies overprint at 5.7 ± 1.2 kbar and 416 ± 14°C. For Thera, we constrain peak HP conditions of 7.6 ± 1.8 kbar and 331 ± 18°C, followed by exhumation and equilibration at ~2 kbar and ~275°C using average P–T and phase equilibrium thermodynamic modelling. For Ios, Uranium-Pb garnet geochronology provides ages of 55.7 ± 5.0 Ma (2σ uncertainties) for prograde and 40.1 ± 1.4 Ma for peak HP metamorphism. Combining our new P–T–t data from Thera and Ios islands with existing data from Naxos island, we conclude that the studied nappe segments represent remnants of a former coherent nappe. The P–T–t data define an Eocene subduction rate of 2.1 ± 1.0 km/Ma, which is distinctly slower than the current subduction rate of 40–45 km/Ma. After subduction, the exhumation of the Middle-CBU nappe occurred during the Oligocene at different rates for different localities. The Middle-CBU nappe of Naxos was exhumed at a rate of ~6 km/Ma, contrasting with the exhumation rate of ~3 km/Ma calculated for Ios. This result suggests that the Middle-CBU nappe of Naxos rocks was thrust on the Ios one during the Oligocene. Using P–T–t data and assuming realistic subduction angles during the Eocene and the Oligocene, we present a 2D structural reconstruction of the Middle-CBU nappe of these islands. This reconstruction helps to understand the mechanisms of subduction of a continental margin and its disruption during exhumation.

Atmospheric mineral dust not only interacts with the climate system by scattering incoming solar radiation and affecting atmospheric photochemistry, but also contributes critical nutrients to marine and terrestrial ecosystems. In a high-resolution analysis of paleodust deposition, peat development and soil dust sources, we assess the interplay between dust deposition and bog development of the Davidsmosse bog in south-western Sweden. Analyses of the 5400-year record (458 cm) included radiocarbon dating, bulk density, ash content, chemical and mineralogical composition and carbon stable isotopes, subsequently explored using principal component analysis. Fourteen dust events (DEs) were recorded (cal BP) in the peat sequence: 3580–3490; 3280; 3140; 3010–2840; 2740; 2610; 2480; 2340; 2240–2130; 1690; 1240; 960, 890–760, and 620–360. The majority of the DEs were coupled to increases in peat accumulation rates and increased nutrient content (N, P and K) suggesting that the DEs contributed with nutrients to the bog ecosystem, promoting increased accumulation. We also analyzed the chemical and mineral composition of potential mineral source deposits (separated into 6 grain-size fractions) from sites within a 4 km radius as well as aeolian dunes closer to the coast (25 km). The composition deposited on the present-day bog surface indicates that the bulk of the contemporary minerals have a local origin (<1.5 km), but the DEs may be of a more distant origin. The results also indicate that quartz and plagioclase feldspar content consistently increase with increasing grain-size, both in the source samples as well as in the peat sequence, and that the Si/Al ratio can be used to infer grain size changes in the peat. Two longer phases saw numerous DEs, between 2800 and 2130 cal BP and a stepwise increase from 960 towards 360 cal BP. The episodic character of the events, together with the inferred coarse grain size, suggest that the particles were deposited by (winter) storms. Future studies should include grain size analysis as well as a more in-depth comparison with regional paleo dust and storm records to increase knowledge on both transport processes (creep, saltation, suspension) and the climate processes driving late Holocene dust and storm events in Scandinavia.

Ikaite (CaCO₃·6H₂O) forms submarine tufa columns in Ikka Fjord, SW Greenland. This unique occurrence is thought to relate to aqueous phosphate concentration and low water temperatures (<6 °C). Phosphate ions are well-known inhibitors of calcite precipitation and Ikka Fjord has a naturally high-phosphate groundwater system that when mixing with seawater leads to the precipitation of ikaite. In the study presented here, experiments simulating conditions of Ikka Fjord show that a) the formation of ikaite is unrelated to the aqueous phosphate concentration (0–263 μmol/kg PO₄³⁻) in 0.1 M NaHCO₃/0.1 M Na₂CO₃ solutions mixing with seawater at 5 °C and pH 9.6–10.6, and b) ikaite forms at temperatures up to 15 °C without phosphate and in open beakers exposed to air. Instead, supersaturation of ikaite and the seawater composition are the likely factors causing ikaite to precipitate in Ikka Fjord. This study shows that adding Mg²⁺ to a NaHCO₃/Na₂CO₃ – CaCl₂ mixed solution leads to the formation of ikaite along with hydrated Mg carbonates, which points to the high Mg²⁺ concentration of seawater, another known inhibitor of calcite, as a key factor promoting ikaite formation. In experiments at 10 and 15 °C, increasing amounts of either nesquehonite (Mg(HCO₃)(OH)·2H₂O) or an amorphous phase co-precipitate with ikaite. At 20 °C, only the amorphous phase is formed. In warming Arctic seawater, this suggests Mg carbonate precipitation could become dominant over ikaite in the future.

Ikaite (CaCO₃·6H₂O) forms submarine tufa columns in Ikka Fjord, SW Greenland. This unique occurrence is thought to relate to aqueous phosphate concentration and low water temperatures (<6 °C). Phosphate ions are well-known inhibitors of calcite precipitation and Ikka Fjord has a naturally high-phosphate groundwater system that when mixing with seawater leads to the precipitation of ikaite. In the study presented here, experiments simulating conditions of Ikka Fjord show that a) the formation of ikaite is unrelated to the aqueous phosphate concentration (0–263 μmol/kg PO₄³⁻) in 0.1 M NaHCO₃/0.1 M Na₂CO₃ solutions mixing with seawater at 5 °C and pH 9.6–10.6, and b) ikaite forms at temperatures up to 15 °C without phosphate and in open beakers exposed to air. Instead, supersaturation of ikaite and the seawater composition are the likely factors causing ikaite to precipitate in Ikka Fjord. This study shows that adding Mg²⁺ to a NaHCO₃/Na₂CO₃ – CaCl₂ mixed solution leads to the formation of ikaite along with hydrated Mg carbonates, which points to the high Mg²⁺ concentration of seawater, another known inhibitor of calcite, as a key factor promoting ikaite formation. In experiments at 10 and 15 °C, increasing amounts of either nesquehonite (Mg(HCO₃)(OH)·2H₂O) or an amorphous phase co-precipitate with ikaite. At 20 °C, only the amorphous phase is formed. In warming Arctic seawater, this suggests Mg carbonate precipitation could become dominant over ikaite in the future.