On the cover: intergrowth of zircon grains (Vasilinovskoe ore occurrence, Polar Urals).
Sample by R. I. Shaybekov, photo by E. M. Tropnikov

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Scientific articles

{slider title="Prospective exploration targets in the Tournaisian clinoforms of the Aktanish-Chishmy trough
L. N. Chanysheva, R. V. Mirnov, Yu. A. Kotenev" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.3.1

Current petroleum exploration is characterized by a high degree of maturity in traditional plays and an increasing need to identify new, complex hydrocarbon traps. One of the most relevant research directions is the detailed structural analysis of the Kama-Kinel Trough System (KKTS) margins. This study focuses on the Tournaisian carbonate clinoform complex within the Aktanysh-Chishmy Trough (Republic of Bashkortostan).

An extensive dataset, including well and seismic data, formed the basis for a detailed seismo-geological analysis. A structural-sedimentary model of the Tournaisian clinoform complex was developed. Five genetic types of exploration targets were identified, including carbonate debris fans, undaform (shelf) units and associated drape structures. Diagnostic features for each type were substantiated, and recommendations for further seismic-based studies were provided.

The application of the approaches described in this paper will improve the reliability of geological modeling and the accuracy of hydrocarbon potential forecasting for carbonate clinoforms, not only within the Republic of Bashkortostan but also across adjacent areas of the Volga-Ural petroleum province. The clinoform complexes of the Kama-Kinel Trough System (KKTS) retain significant potential for further detailed exploration.

Keywords: Aktanish-Chishmy trough, carbonate clinoforms, sedimentary aprons, exploration sites, oil prospects, geological exploration

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{slider title="Transformations of detrital chrome spinels during metamorphism
of Lower Paleozoic rocks of the Alkesvozh suite (Subpolar Urals)
S. A. Onishchenko, L. I. Efanova, S. K. Kuznetsov" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.3.2

Detrital chrome spinels in terrigenous rocks of the Alkesvozh suite interact with the rock matrix during metamorphism under greenschist facies conditions. This results in the replacement of chrome spinels by Cr-bearing muscovite (fuchsite) or magnetite. The relict portion of the chrome spinels, as a result of component exchange with the environment, is replaced by secondary chrome spinels, which lack Mg but contain significant Zn contents. The composition of all chrome spinel grains is secondary, but the process of change caused by metamorphism of sedimentary rocks is clearly visible only in some of them. The ZnO content of detrital chrome spinels varies both from grain to grain and within a single grain. The minimum ZnO content recorded by us in chrome spinels is 1.3 wt. %, and the maximum is 17.5 wt. %. The final result of the transformation of chrome spinels is the conservation of their relics in magnetite crystals, or their complete disappearance. The former presence of detrital chrome spinelides in the rock is evidenced only by the presence of Cr in metamorphic minerals (mica, chlorite, and hematite), as well as the synthesis of idiomorphic crystals of Zn-containing (14.4–18.1 wt. % ZnO) chromium spinelide in a fuchsite matrix.

Keywords: detrital chrome spinelide, Zn-containing chrome spinelide, Cr-containing muscovite (fuchsite), metamorphism

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{slider title="Geochemistry of indium and other trace elements in biotite as an indicator of the formation conditions
of the Gubanov intrusion (Wiborg rapakivi granite massif)
I. V. Rogova, S. G. Skublov, A. V. Berezin, D. A. Petrov" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.3.3

For the first time, the content of a wide range of trace elements, including indium, was determined for biotite from trachytoid granites of the Gubanov intrusion and host ovoid granites using the high-precision local SIMS method. It was established that indium in the biotite from granites of the Wiborg rapakivi massif was of magmatic nature and its accumulation was controlled by fractional crystallization. Indium behaved as a typical incompatible element, concentrating in the residual melt. The main elements associated with In during the magmatic stage were Sn, Sc, Sm, Nb, Rb, and Zn. These elements formed a reliable association, confirmed by both parametric and rank correlations. Chlorine likely participated in the transport of In in the form of chloride complexes, but this bond was not stable in mineral phases (biotite). The physicochemical conditions of indium accumulation — reducing conditions and moderately high pressure — favored the incorporation of In³⁺ into biotite, which began to crystallize from the melt under these parameters. The high In content (up to 5.8 ppm) in biotite, combined with the high Sn content (>100 ppm) and a positive correlation with Zn, indicated that the Wiborg massif could be considered potentially promising for In-Sn-Zn mineralization.

Keywords: biotite, indium, rapakivi granites, Wiborg massif, Gubanov intrusion, trace elements, critical metals

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{slider title="Kinetic features and mechanism of formation of spherical silica particles according to dynamic light scattering data
D. V. Kamashev, A. M. Askhabov" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.3.4

The kinetic features of monodisperse spherical silica particle formation are investigated by dynamic light scattering in a model system based on the hydrolysis of tetraethoxysilane in an organic medium.

The analysis of the experimental data reveals three distinct stages of silica particle formation: I) condensation of hydroxysilanes yielding di- and trimers; II) formation of branched polymeric structures; III) spatial packing of the resulting structures into final silica spheres (globules). It is demonstrated that the minimum hydrodynamic radius of silica particles detected during nucleation is independent of the synthesis conditions and is approximately 8 nm.

The established patterns of existence of the stages of formation of spherical silica particles and the associated possibility of controlling their duration will in the future make it possible to program the size and degree of monodispersity of spheres, optimize the methods of introducing the necessary elements into the structure of particles, and improve the technologies for creating nanocomposite materials based on them.

Keywords: monodisperse spherical silica particles, dynamic light scattering, formation mechanism, kinetic features

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Анонс публикаций

• Minerals and rocks. Collections of Academician N. P. Yushkin

• Atomic force microscopy of defect-actuated growth and dissolution of crystals Н. N. Piskunova

• Anna Ivanovna Antoshkina (science, creativity, bibliography)

• Industrial waters of the Timan-Pechora sedimentation basin T. P. Mityusheva, O. E. Amosova, I. O. Mashin

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On the cover: epidote-quartz amygdale in metarhyolite of the Nemuryugan suite (Polar Urals).
Thin section in crossed nicols. Photo by N. Ulyasheva.

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{slider title="Pyrophanite and manganoilmenite in granites of the third phase of the intrusion
of the Turochak granosyenite-granite-leucogranite complex (Bolshoy Ikonostas Mountain, Gorny Altai)
E. V. Nastavko, T. V. Leshukov, B. Yu. Zmeev,  A. S. Slesarev, G. A. Fedosyuk" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.2.1

The simultaneous presence of two minerals of the ilmenite group has been established in the granites of the third phase of the Turochak complex intrusion (γD₁t). They differ in size, location in the rock and chemical composition. Magnetite grains occur together with them. Manganoilmenite (MnO 17.95—22.68 wt.%) occurs as euhedral grains 150—200 µm in size, confined to biotite laths. The iron-manganese ratio varies from 1.18 to 1.63. The pyrophanite minal makes up 38—45%, hematite minal is rarely present (up to 2%). The general formula is as follows: (Fe²⁺_0.53—0.60Mn_0.38—0.45Fe³⁺_0—0.02)_S1.00—1.01Ti_0.99—1.00O₃. Pyrophanite (MnO 24.35—27.18 wt.%) is represented by small (up to 50 µm) euhedral grains located in the intergranular space. The iron-manganese ratio is less than unity (FeO/MnO from 0.74 to 0.93). The pyrophanite end-member makes up from 52 to 58%, the hematite end-member is absent. The generalized formula is (Mn_0.52—0.58Fe²⁺_0.42—0.48)_S1.00Ti_1.00O₃. Magnetite in the rock occurs as isometric euhedral grains, mainly confined to biotite, no more than 40 µm in size. Single grains are found in plagioclase; their size reaches 150—180 µm. Magnetite is characterized by the constant presence of titanium (TiO₂ 5.87—7.30 wt.%) and manganese (up to 0.20%), the amount of total iron is FeO 92.59—94.02 wt.%. The general formula of magnetite is Fe²⁺_1.16—1.20(Fe³⁺_1.60—1.68Ti_0.16—0.20)_S1.80—1.84O₄. The oxygen activity calculated for the "magnetite-manganoilmenite pair is from –26 to –24, and for the magnetite-pyrophanite pair –36 to –32, which indicates reducing conditions during their crystallization.

Keywords: granite, manganoilmenite, pyrophanite, magnetite, Turochak complex, Altai Mountains

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{slider title="Mineralogical features of tungsten ores affecting their processability
V. E. Zhukova, E. G. Ozhogina, N. A. Sycheva,  Y. N. Shuvalova" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.2.2

Tungsten is a scarce mineral raw material essential for critical industries. The country is in acute need of developing new tungsten deposits. The Shauyrkhyg prospective area is currently a site that requires detailed study. Investigating the composition and structure of the ore using a set of technological mineralogy methods (optical-mineralogical, X-ray diffraction, chemical, and electron microscopy analysis) allows determining its processing prospects.

Keywords: scheelite ore, scheelite, tungstite, mineralogical features

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{slider title="Biomineralogical analysis of human  urinary stones
V. I. Silaev, A. A. Slyusar, A. B. Slyusar,  A. B. Kokin, A. P. Shuisky,
A. F. Khazov, S. N. Shanina,  B. A. Makeev, I. B. Smoleva1, D. B. Kiseleva" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.2.3

We present a study of a reference collection of urinary stone samples from men and women aged 27—83 years, as well as urine from patients with urolithiasis and chronic pyelonephritis, using a wide range of modern experimental research methods. The chemical and phase composition, trace element content, amino acid composition and content in proteins, and the isotopic composition of carbon and nitrogen are analyzed. Biominerals are found in the urinary stones, covering virtually the entire modern range of mineral types: elementary substances (metals), chalcogenides (sulfides), halides (chlorides), oxides (magnetite, SiO₂ phase), silicates (aluminosilicates), and oxygen salts. In addition to minerals, the stones also contain so-called mineraloids, represented by hydrous calcium oxalates and uric acid. Fifteen protein amino acids, including seven essential ones, are identified in the studied samples. Three amino acids contain a small amount of the D-enantiomer. The isotopic composition of carbon and nitrogen in organic matter found in human stones and urine is unique and differs from that found in human bones, the Earth's atmosphere, and sedimentary rocks. However, urinary stones share a carbon isotopic composition similar to organic polymers formed by modern volcanism.

Keywords: urinary stones, mineral formation in the human body, biominerals

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{slider title="Integrated assessment of geoecological risk  of soil contamination in the impact zone
of the Aikhal Mining and Processing Plant  (Yakutia, Russia)
A. G. Gololobova, Ya. B. Legostaeva, O. V. Shadrinova" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.2.4

In recent years, soil pollution with potentially toxic elements has become an important issue causing widespread concern because it is a significant factor threatening the environment. The mining industry is one of the main sources of negative impact. Moreover, the soil is the main geochemical absorber of various pollutants. In the present study, using ecological-geochemical and toxicological pollution indices, such as the Nemerov index (INI), pollution load index (PLI), total pollution index (Z_c), potential ecological risk index (RI), the levels of chemical pollution of soils of the industrial site of the Aikhal Mining and Processing Division with potentially toxic elements (Pb, Ni, Mn, Cd, Co, Cr, Zn, Cu, As) are identified. As a result of calculations of these indices, the elements that make the main contribution to the pollution of the studied soils are identified. The pollutant elements for INI are As, Ni and Cu; for PLI — As, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cr, Co, Mn; for Zc — As, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cr; for RI — Ni. Nickel is the main environmental risk factor for soils at the Aikhal Mining and Processing Division's industrial site. Using spatial distribution maps, localized areas with high geoecological stress are identified near the processing plants.

Keywords: potentially toxic elements, soil pollution, pollution indices, geoecological risk, Daldyn-Alakit diamond-bearing region, Alakit-Markhinsky kimberlite field

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47—59

Russian Conference “Timanides-Protouralides  of the European Northeast:
Stratigraphy, Magmatism, Geodynamics, Metallogeny” (announcement)

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On the cover: weathering pillars — a geological monument in the Troitsk-Pechoradistrict of the Komi Republic
(Manpupuner Plateau). Photo by V. Udoratin

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{slider title="Complex analysis of the structure of the Lower Jurassic J1-I bed
within the Khapchagai megaswell of the Vilyuy syneclise
Е. А. Deliu, Е. V. Taskaeva" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.1.1

The object of research is the Lower Jurassic terrigenous deposits that compose the productive J1-I formation of the Gettang-Plinsbach age. In the studied area, these deposits are characterized by shallow occurrence depths and are promising for hydrocarbon exploration.

Based on the sedimentological analysis of the new well core, it was determined that the J1-I formation deposits were formed in the proximal part of the delta front and in sublittoral environments. The surface of the unconformity was identified on the basis of sedimentological, lithological and ichnofacies analysis of core material and it was traced across the entire study area using the sequence stratigraphic method to correlate geological and geophysical information from wells. Based on the results of sedimentological analysis, using logging data and seismic CDPM 3D, a lithofacies model of the J1-I formation was constructed, which reflects the distribution of sedimentary material in the study area.

Keywords: cyclites, facies, delta, transgression, Lower Jurassic deposits, Kyzyl-­Syr formation, Vilyuy syneclise, Eastern Siberia

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{slider title="Chemical and physical diagnostics of tektites
A. Y. Lysiuk, V. P. Lyutoev, O. S. Golovataya" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.1.2

Two samples of natural glass from the collection of Academician N. P. Yushkin, presumably attributed to tektites of the Austalasian scattering field, were characterized by chemical analysis, electron microscopy, infrared, ⁵⁷Fe Mossbauer spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance. According to the research results, both samples have typical characteristics of the Australasian tektites of the Indochinese flank (Indochinites). The samples differ well in chemical composition and spectroscopic characteristics, the degree of polymerization of the aluminosilicate framework, and the structural positions of iron ions. The difference is related to the disparate fields within the same region.

Keywords: tektites, scattered fields, natural aluminosilicate glasses, infrared spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, ⁵⁷Fe Mossbauer spectroscopy

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{slider title="The mineralogy of copper slags the Kirovgrad plant (Sverdlovsk region)
Yu. V. Erokhin, V. S. Ponomarev, A. V. Zakharov, L. V. Leonova" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.1.3

The object of this study is the copper slag from the Kirovgrad (originally Kalatinsky) plant, operating since 1914, around which the modern city of Kirovgrad (Sverdlovsk region, Middle Urals) has gradually grown. The material composition of the studied samples is obtained by scanning electron microscopy and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. It has been established that they are represented by two types with distinct mineralogical and geochemical characteristics. The first type is composed of a fayalite-augite aggregate containing magnetite, chromite, and arsenide-stibnide-sulfide mineralization, as well as copper and silver. Chalcogenides are represented by troilite, cubanite, haycockite, rudashevskite, galena, breithauptite, westerveldite, and Cu-Fe sulfides. The second type is a fayalite-hedenbergite aggregate with significant amounts of magnetite, glass, and arsenide-stibnide-sulfide mineralization, as well as barkovite, copper, and silver. Chalcogenides are represented by bornite, chalcocite, sphalerite, galena, pentlandite, heazlewoodite, breithauptite, nickeline, and shandite. The slag mineralogy is consistent with their trace element composition. It is concluded that the first type of slag resulted from the smelting of copper pyrite ores from the Levikhinsky group of deposits, while the second type resulted from the smelting of polymetallic ores from the Safyanovsky deposit. Slags from the Kirovgrad plant can be processed to extract sulphide and magnetite concentrates, and associated silver.

Keywords: fayalite, pyroxenes, sulphides, mineralogy, geochemistry, cooper slags, Kirovgrad copper plant

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{slider title="Refinement of a 3D geological model through neural-simulation-based
seismic prediction K. A. Senkina, D. V. Istomina" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.1.4

Prediction of sand reservoir properties plays a key role in the exploration and development of oil and gas fields. Traditional approaches often face limitations associated with nonlinear functions, heterogeneities, and variability of rocks. These challenges lead to a decrease in the accuracy of net reservoir prediction, which entails risks in reservoir engineering and field development. In this regard, the implementation of machine learning methods that can automatically identify complex patterns, take into account multi-factor relationships, and adjust to changing conditions becomes relevant, which opens up new opportunities to improve the predicting accuracy and reliability.

This paper discusses modern neural prediction methods, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as practical aspects of applying machine learning to predict sand reservoirs. Particular attention is paid to the selection of input data, creation of neural network architecture, setting up estimation parameters, and interpreting the results.

The study is aimed at demonstrating the high performance of neural network technologies in solving problems of predicting the sand reservoir properties. It is expected that the results of the study will contribute to the optimization of geological exploration and improve the economics of field development.

Keywords: neural network forecasting, hierarchical neural network, self-organizing Kohonen maps

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{slider title="From Professor D. P. Grigoriev’s archive: letters from Academicians N. V. Belov and A. V. Shubnikov
Yu. L. Voytekhovsky" open="false" icons="true"}

DOI: 10.19110/geov.2026.1.5

The article continues the publication of letters and photos of prominent Russian geologists, mineralogists, and crystallographers from the personal Professor D. P. Grigoriev’s archive, kept at the Russian Mineralogical Society, in this case from Academicians N. V. Belov and A. V. Shubnikov, leaders of Russian crystal chemistry and crystallography. The letters and photos clarity motivations and circumstances of certain events recorded in the history of science or remaining as biographical episodes. The relevance of the article lies in the need to defend the priorities of Russian science. The goal of the work is to provide the most comprehensive coverage of its history based on documents. D. P. Grigoriev's archive of letters, photos, and other documents reflects several decades of the pre-war and post-war history of Russian mineralogy and crystallography. This article is intended for professional historians of science and a wide range of science enthusiasts, including members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, university professors, postgraduate students, and undergraduates.

Keywords: D. P. Grigoriev, N. V. Belov, A. V. Shubnikov, personal archives, history of science, mineralogy, crystal chemistry, crystallography

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Scientific event plans at the Institute of Geology FRC Komi SC UB RAS in 2026
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