Metatorbernite
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Archaeodontosaurus" title="User:Archaeodontosaurus">Didier Descouens</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NameMetatorbernite
Chemical FormulaCu(UO₂)₂(PO₄)₂·8H₂O
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemtetragonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorpale green
Cleavageperfect on {001}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.5
Colorsgreen, emerald green, yellowish-green
Transparencytransparent to translucent
Type LocalityMargabal Mine, Entraygues-sur-Truyère, Aveyron, Midi-Pyrénées, France
Mineral GroupPhosphates
Usescollector, scientific research
Associated Mineralstorbernite, autunite, uraninite, quartz
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features a cluster of blocky, tabular Metatorbernite crystals, displaying a vibrant emerald to yellowish-green color with noticeable striations and a layered appearance.
Geological Context
Metatorbernite is a secondary uranium mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of uranium-bearing ore deposits, often as an alteration product of primary uranium minerals like uraninite, found in granites, pegmatites, and sedimentary rocks.
