While the term "ore" typically refers to a rock or mineral from which a metal or other valuable substance can be profitably extracted, the rarest known mineral on Earth, and arguably the rarest naturally occurring solid, is Kyawthuite.
Understanding Kyawthuite: The Rarest Mineral
Kyawthuite holds the distinction of being the rarest mineral because only a single crystal of it has ever been found. This makes it extraordinarily unique and valuable from a scientific perspective.
- Discovery: The sole known crystal of Kyawthuite was discovered in the Mogok region of Myanmar, an area renowned for its rich mineral deposits, particularly high-quality gemstones.
- Appearance: This minuscule gem is a deep orange gemstone, weighing just 1.61 carats. Its small size belies its immense rarity.
- Recognition: The International Mineralogical Association officially recognized Kyawthuite as a distinct mineral in 2015, solidifying its place in the scientific community's catalog of known minerals.
- Uniqueness: The existence of only one known specimen makes Kyawthuite an unparalleled example of rarity in the mineral world.
Mineral vs. Ore: A Brief Distinction
It's important to understand the difference between a "mineral" and an "ore":
- Mineral: A naturally occurring inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition and a regular atomic structure (e.g., quartz, diamond, kyawthuite).
- Ore: A rock or mineral deposit that contains a valuable metal or non-metal that can be economically extracted (e.g., bauxite for aluminum, hematite for iron).
While Kyawthuite is a mineral, it is not typically considered an "ore" in the traditional sense because it is not mined for its bulk material or for extraction of a specific metal, but rather valued as a unique gemstone and a scientific curiosity due to its extreme scarcity.
Key Facts About Kyawthuite
To summarize the unique aspects of this incredibly rare find:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Kyawthuite |
| Type | Mineral (specifically, a gemstone) |
| Rarity | Only one known crystal exists globally |
| Location | Mogok region, Myanmar |
| Size | 1.61 carats |
| Color | Deep orange |
| Status | Officially recognized by the International Mineralogical Association in 2015 |
The singular nature of the Kyawthuite crystal positions it as the rarest known natural solid on Earth.
