Ferrian Biotite (Annite)

Annite is a phyllosilicate mineral in the mica family, the iron-dominant end member of the biotite group, forming the iron-rich counterpart to magnesium-rich phlogopite. It typically occurs in iron-rich igneous and metamorphic rocks that are deficient in magnesium. First described in 1868 from Cape Ann, Rockport, Massachusetts this specimen comes from the type locality.

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal