Kasolita
Kasolita is a mineral with formula Pb(UO₂)(SiO₄)·H₂O, in the Silicatos group. This specimen comes from Musonoi, Kolwezi, Lualaba, Alto Katanga, República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire) and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.
Description
Well-defined orange kasolite crystals, with deep green torbernite lining part of the surface. The contrast between the two species is pronounced.
History of this specimen
I received it with small loose fragments from transport, but no significant structural damage.
About Kasolita
Kasolite is a secondary uranium silicate that occurs in the oxidised zones of deposits rich in uranium and lead. It usually forms small prismatic crystals, orange to reddish brown, and is often associated with other radioactive phosphates or silicates such as torbernite.
About the locality
Musonoi, an open-pit mine, is one of the most important uranium localities of the Congo Copperbelt. Mining activity was concentrated in the mid-20th century, producing classic specimens of uranium phosphates and silicates with intense colours and characteristic associations.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0206
- Composition
- Pb(UO₂)(SiO₄)·H₂O
- Name
- Kasolita
- Group
- Silicatos
- Category
- Núcleus Ardens
- Matrix
- Matriz oscura
- Associations
- torbernita
- Mine
- Musonoi
- District / Municipality
- Kolwezi
- Province
- Lualaba
- Region
- Alto Katanga
- Country
- República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire)
- Size (cm)
- 3.5 x 2 x 1.5
- Weight
- 18 g
- Acquired
- 2025
- Etymology
- From Kasolo Hill, near Shinkolobwe (Democratic Republic of the Congo), where it was first described.
- Quality
- Muy buena
- Value trend
- Al alza
Related specimens
- Aerinita (fibrosa) — España
- Apofilita — India
- Asbesto —
- Atacamita — República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire)
- Atacamita — Chile
- Becquerelita — República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire)
- Boltwoodita — Namibia
- Boltwoodita — Estados Unidos