Class : Sulfates, chromates, molybdates
    Subclass : Hydrated sulfates
    Crystal system : Monoclinic
    Chemistry : KMg(SO₄)Cl 3H₂O
    Rarity : Rare

Kainite is a hydrated sulfate present in marine potassic evaporitic layers, where it notably accompanies sylvite, carnallite and langbeinite. Its genesis often appears to result from a slight metamorphism of these salt formations. It takes its name from the Greek kainos (new), in reference to its secondary origin. Kainite is a mineral that usually occurs in grainy masses but can also form tabular crystals several centimeters thick. Kainite is normally colorless but is frequently colored gray, yellowish, brownish or purplish by mineral inclusions of different types. It is a source of potassium and magnesium, but very secondary given its rarity.

Main photo : Kainite from Hannover, Germany © Rob Lavinsky

No twin known for this mineral species.

No fakes recorded for this mineral species.