Cuprosklodowskita
Cuprosklodowskita is a mineral with formula Cu(UO₂)₂(SiO₃OH)₂·6H₂O, in the Silicatos group. This specimen comes from Mina Musonoi, Kolwezi, Lualaba, Katanga, República Democrática del Congo.
Description
Dense coating of acicular cuprosklodowskite crystals forming radial sprays on limonitic matrix. A vivid grass-green central area contrasts with the surrounding yellowish-green crystallisation. The specimen displays a good silky lustre and very compact crystal growth. 110 μSv/h
About Cuprosklodowskita
Cuprosklodowskite is a hydrated copper uranyl silicate formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of copper-rich uranium deposits. It typically develops aggregates of vivid green acicular crystals and is one of the characteristic uranium minerals of the Katanga Copperbelt.
About the locality
The Musonoi Mine, near Kolwezi, is one of the great classic localities of the Katanga Copperbelt. Its remarkable oxidation zones produced some of the finest known specimens of cuprosklodowskite, sklodowskite, kasolite, torbernite, uranophane and numerous secondary copper and uranium minerals. Since the mid-20th century, it has been an important reference locality for collectors and museums worldwide.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0686
- Composition
- Cu(UO₂)₂(SiO₃OH)₂·6H₂O
- Name
- Cuprosklodowskita
- Group
- Silicatos
- Category
- Núcleus Ardens
- Matrix
- Limonita
- Mine
- Mina Musonoi
- District / Municipality
- Kolwezi
- Province
- Lualaba
- Region
- Katanga
- Country
- República Democrática del Congo
- Size (cm)
- 4.5 × 3.5 × 1.8
- Ex-collection
- Francisco Muñoz Leiva
- Etymology
- Named as the copper analogue of sklodowskite, itself named in honour of Marie Skłodowska Curie (1867–1934), a pioneer in the study of radioactivity.
- Quality
- Notable
- Value trend
- Estable
Related specimens
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