Torbernite
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameTorbernite
Chemical FormulaCu(UO₂)₂(PO₄)₂·8-12H₂O
Mohs Hardness2
Crystal Systemtetragonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorpale green
Cleavageperfect on {001}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.2
Colorsemerald-green, grass-green, apple-green, yellowish-green
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityMusonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Western area, Katanga Copper Crescent, Democratic Republic of Congo
Mineral GroupPhosphates
Usesminor uranium ore, collector
Associated Mineralskasolite, malachite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features bright emerald-green torbernite crystals, likely tabular or blocky, intergrown with yellowish-orange kasolite and darker green malachite on a lighter matrix.
Geological Context
Torbernite 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 in granitic or sedimentary environments.
