Cuprosklodowskite - Encyclopedia
Class : Silicates
Subclass : Nesosilicates
Crystal System : Triclinic
Chemistry : (H3O)Cu(UO2)2(SiO4)2 2H2O
Rarity : Rare
Cuprosklodowskite (formerly called jachymovite) is a secondary silicate from the superficial oxidation zone of uranium deposits where it accompanies, among others, kasolite and vandenbrandeite. Its name is linked to its chemical composition (copper) and its relationship with sklodowskite. Its crystals are elongated to acicular, they can exceed the centimeter, with a perfect cleavage on {100} ; they are grouped in splendid acicular tufts of a silky appearance, or constitute radiate or fibroradiated hummocky encrustations. Emerald green to blue-green in elongated crystals, color fades to pale green in needle-like crystals. It is a rare mineral, only intended for collection.
Main photo : Cuprosklodowskite de Musonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Lualaba, Democratic Republic of Congo
Cuprosklodowskite in the World
Twinning and special crystallizations
No twin known for this mineral species.
Fakes and treatments
No fake identify for this mineral species.
Hardness : 4
Density : 3.85
Fracture : Irregular
Trace : Green
TP : Translucent to transparent
RI : 1.654 to 1.667
Birefringence : 0.010 to 0.012
Optical character : Biaxial -
Pleochroism : Visible
Fluorescence : None
Solubility : -
Magnetism : None
Radioactivity : Very strong