In this study we present a novel method for the automatic detection of minerals and elements using hyperspectral transmittance imaging microscopy measurements of complete thin sections (HyperTIM).

Rocks containing the serpentine mineral lizardite occur in many tectonic settings. Knowing the crystal orientation of lizardite in these rocks tells us how they deform and gives insights into their physical properties. The crystal orientation of lizardite is challenging to obtain using standard techniques. To overcome this challenge, we developed a method using Raman spectroscopy to map the crystal orientation of lizardite with minimal preparation on standard thin sections.

A very representative type of historic brick, made of Mg- and Ca-rich illitic clays fired at high temperatures and used in the city of Padua, was studied. The mineral phases formed during the firing and the processes that took place after firing have enhanced the durability of the bricks, so the data obtained may be significant to the current ceramic industry. This study was framed within the CLAYONRISK project (MSCA-IF-2018) and was performed based on archeometric methodologies.

The name sigismundite has been reinstated for what was previously arrojadite-(BaFe). Sigismundite honours Pietro Sigismund (1874–1962), and this paper outlines his significant contributions to Italian mineralogy.

Magmas transport large amounts of CO₂ from Earth's mantle into the atmosphere and thus contribute significantly to the global carbon cycle. We have developed an experimental method to homogenize at high pressure small liquid droplets trapped in magmatic crystals to gain access to the initial composition of the parental magma (major and volatile elements). With this technique, we show that magmas produced by melting of the subcontinental mantle contain several weight percent of CO₂.

This work presents new thermoelastic parameters and the structural evolution of burbankite at high pressure and high temperature, obtained by in situ synchrotron radiation single-crystal diffraction measurements. Burbankite is a carbonate that may potentially play a key role as an upper-mantle reservoir of light REE³⁺. We observed that the density of burbankite is greater with respect to carbonatitic magmas, indicating a possible fractionation of this phase in upper-mantle conditions.

The paper reports the type description of the new mineral species graulichite-(La). This is a new addition to the dussertite group within the alunite supergroup, and its discovery improves our knowledge on the crystal chemistry of this important supergroup of minerals, having both technological and environmental applications.