Chinese scientists have discovered a new silicate mineral that is rich in cerium in a rare earth mine. The mineral has been approved by the International Mineralogical Association and named Ni Pei Stone in honor of Professor Ni Pei, a prominent Chinese geologist. Ni Pei Stone is a mineral containing cerium with color ranging from light red to reddish-brown.

It holds the record for the highest cerium content among silicate minerals discovered in nature. Due to its unique chemical component and crystal structure, which differ from that of minerals previously discovered, the International Mineralogical Association has revised the definition of minerals in the family of the Ni Pei Stone.