Torbernite

Torbernite / Meta-Torbernite are two related copper uranyl minerals, which are prized as mineral specimens.

Torbenite is a hydrated green copper uranyl phosphate; meta-torbernite is a dehydration pseudomorph which occurs as a secondary mineral in areas of uranium ores.

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Information about Torbernite / Meta-Torbernite

Torbernite could be used as a uranium ore, but is typically more valued as a collectors mineral specimen.

Torbernite could be used as a uranium ore, but is typically more valued as a collectors mineral specimen.

Meta-torbernite is a good indicator mineral of other uranium ores, as it tends to occur as a secondary mineral around sources of other ores.

Named after the Swedish chemist, Tornbern Bergmann (1735-1784).

 

Mineralogy

Chemistry
A hydrated green copper uranyl phosphate, with the chemical formula Cu[(UO2)(PO4)]2(H2O)12. Torbernite tends to dehydrate to meta-torbernite with the sum formula Cu[(UO2)(PO4)]2(H2O)8.
Colours and Variations
Green of various tones.
Streak
Pale green
Luster
Vitreous, pearly
Transparency
Opaque to transparent.
Fracture
Brittle
Crystal habit
Tabular crystals, foliated, earthy masses.
Mohs hardness
2.0 – 2.5
Fluorescence
Sometimes.
Specific Gravity
3.22
Easiest testing method
Geiger counter / dosimeter will help to narrow it down.

Hazards and Warnings

Radioactive AND poisonous – toxic mineral.

Torbenite should not be cut or polished, and ideally handling should be kept to a minimum.

It should, ideally, be stored in a sealed jar or box and periodically checked with a geiger counter to reduce the risk of leakage.

 

Translations

Arabic:

  • توربرنايت

Hindi:

Portuguese:

  • Torbernita

Bengali:

Indonesian:

Punjabi:

English:

  • torbernite
  • meta-torbernite

Italian:

Russian:

  • Торбернит

French:

Japanese:

Spanish:

  • Torbernita

German:

  • Torbernit

Korean:

  • 토르베르나이트

Thai:

  • ทอร์เบอร์ไนต์

Gujurati:

Mandarin Chinese:

  • 铜铀云母

Urdu:

Further Reading / External Links