TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet

Soddyita

Soddyita is a mineral with formula (UO₂)₂SiO₄·2H₂O, in the Silicatos (Nesosilicatos) group. This specimen comes from Swambo Hill, Kambove Territory, Haut-Katanga, Katanga Copper Crescent, República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire) and joined the Terrium collection in 1990.

Soddyita from Swambo Hill, Kambove Territory, Haut-Katanga, Katanga Copper Crescent, República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire) — Terrium

Description

Lenticular and bipyramidal aggregates of yellow soddyite, with well-defined tabular crystals, on dark matrix; other undetermined uranium minerals occur, with a response under UV light.

History of this specimen

Dr Győző Várhegyi was one of the great collectors of Hungary. He wrote books for collectors, founded several clubs, and died in 2015, leaving a broad mineral legacy.

About Soddyita

Hydrated uranyl silicate, not very common, described in 1922. It forms as a secondary mineral with other uranyl species in oxidised zones. Well-crystallised specimens—except at Swambo Hill—are less frequent than crusts or massive/earthy material.

About the locality

Former Zaire. One of the best, if not the best, soddyite-producing areas. Swambo Hill, Kambove District, Haut-Katanga: a classic locality of the Katanga Copper Crescent. The area was prospected but never opened as a mine; the deposit is worked by small local diggers.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0343
Composition
(UO₂)₂SiO₄·2H₂O
Name
Soddyita
Group
Silicatos (Nesosilicatos)
Category
Núcleus Ardens
Associations
Uraníferos indeterminados
Mine
Swambo Hill
District / Municipality
Kambove Territory
Province
Haut-Katanga
Region
Katanga Copper Crescent
Country
República Democrática del Congo (ex-Zaire)
Size (cm)
3.5 x 2.7 x 2
Acquired
1990
Ex-collection
Dr. Győző Várhegyi
Etymology
Named in honour of Frederick Soddy (1877–1956).
Quality
Buena
Value trend
Estable

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