Lepersonnite-(Gd), Studtite, Curite, Uraninite

2.4 x 1.5 x 2 cm. Lepersonnite-(Gd) is a very rare REE-uranyl carbonate from Shinkolobwe. Here it is intergrown in the yellow Studtite clusters (surrounded by smaller Uranophane xls). The difference is obvious and visible under magnification where the Lepersonnite-(Gd) forms flat crystals while the Studtite forms needles. The orange mineral is Curite. The Shinkolobwe mine is closed since the late 1950’s and is the type locality for all three of these: Lepersonnite-(Gd), Studtite and Curite.


This Photo was Mindat.org Photo of the Day - 7th Feb 2010

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Photo added: 13th Dec 2008