Overview

• Scientists have mapped jadarite’s unique geological recipe involving alkaline lakes, lithium-rich volcanic glass and clay transformation that limits its occurrence to Serbia’s Jadar Basin.
• First identified by Rio Tinto in 2004 and formally described in 2007, jadarite remains the only known source of this lithium-bearing mineral on Earth.
• Its chemical formula closely matches the fictional kryptonite from Superman Returns without emitting radiation or posing toxic risks.
• Jadarite offers a more energy-efficient extraction of lithium compared to spodumene and also contains boron for industrial uses such as heat-resistant glass and fertilizers.
• The London Natural History Museum study suggests mining jadarite could reduce Europe’s dependence on imported lithium by meeting nearly all of its electric vehicle battery requirements.