Mineral Evolution
Recent Mineral Discoveries and Geological Processes
Co-Conveners
Peng Liu, Northwest University
Guowu Li, China University of Geosciences (Beijing)
Zhenyu Chen, Institute of Mineral Resources, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences
Guang Fan, Beijing Research Institute of Uranium Geology
Can Rao, Zhejiang University
Yongfei Tian, Northwest University
Yuan Xue, China University of Geosciences (Beijing)
Bin Wu, East China University of Technology
Yongmei Zhang, China University of Geosciences (Beijing)
Yumiao Meng, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences
The discovery of new minerals has long been at the forefront of mineralogical science, continually reshaping our understanding of Earth and planetary processes. This session aims to explore the full spectrum of new mineral research—from innovative detection technologies to the geological and materials implications of these discoveries.
Advances in analytical methods now allow scientists to identify and characterize minerals at unprecedented spatial and chemical resolution. These developments not only expand the catalogue of known mineral species but also uncover new crystallographic architectures, bonding environments, and compositional extremes that challenge existing mineral classification frameworks.
Each new mineral represents a unique record of the physicochemical environment in which it formed. By decoding these records, we gain insights into fluid–rock interaction, redox evolution, metamorphic and magmatic processes, and even biological influences on mineral formation. Discoveries from extraterrestrial materials—such as meteorites, lunar and Martian samples, or asteroid-return missions—further illuminate planetary differentiation, early solar system evolution, and volatile cycling.
Moreover, the intrinsic properties of newly identified minerals frequently inspire advances in materials science. Their novel structures and compositions provide prototypes for functional materials relevant to catalysis, energy storage, and environmental remediation. Thus, the study of new mineral forms is a critical bridge between fundamental Earth science and technological innovation.
We invite contributions that address:
New techniques for mineral discovery and structural characterization;
Case studies illustrating mineral-forming processes and conditions;
Implications of new minerals for deep Earth and planetary evolution.
By integrating perspectives from mineralogy, geochemistry, materials science, and planetary exploration, this session will highlight how new mineral discoveries reveal both the complexity of geological systems and the creative potential of nature’s materials—an embodiment of “Mineralogy in the Future.”
