Class : Elements
    Subclass : Non-metals
    Crystal system : Trigonal
    Chemistry : Se
    Rarity : Rare

Native selenium is a rare mineral from uranium deposits and coal mines. In this second type of occurrence, it occurs in rare small flexible acicular crystals, gray-black in color and metallic luster. In its most common facies, it is a product of atmospheric alteration of selenides (more particularly clausthalite). It accompanies uranium minerals on which it forms incrustations and dull reddish-black masses, turning bright red when in powder form. Its name comes from the Greek Selênê (Moon) by analogy with Tellurium, itself named after the Latin Tellus (Earth).

Main photo : Native selenium from Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania, USA © Gianfranco Ciccolini

No twinning known for this mineral species.

No fakes listed for this mineral species.