How is a metamict mineral defined?

A metamict mineral is defined as a mineral that has lost its crystalline structure due to the effects of radiation, typically from the decay of radioactive elements within the mineral itself. Over time, exposure to radiation can disrupt the orderly arrangement of atoms in the crystal lattice, resulting in a non-crystalline, amorphous state. This transformation affects the mineral's physical properties, such as clarity and transparency, and marks a significant change from its original form. Understanding this concept is crucial, as it highlights the impacts of natural processes on mineral stability and structure.