IMA mineral species ⚠ Handle with care

Uranophane

Ca(UO₂)₂(SiO₃OH)₂·5H₂O

Uranyl nesosilicate mineral.

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Uranophane specimen
Uranophane.jpg · Wikimedia Commons (see file page for author & license)

Properties

Chemical formulaCa(UO₂)₂(SiO₃OH)₂·5H₂O
ElementsCa, U, O, Si, H
Crystal systemMonoclinic
Mohs hardness—
Density—
Streak—
Color—
IMA symbolUrp
Nickel–Strunz class9.AK.15

“—” means no reliable value in Wikidata yet. Check Mindat for full data.

⚠ Handle With Care High caution

☢ Radioactive😷 Dust / fibre inhalation hazard🚫 Don't make water elixirs

Why: A calcium uranyl silicate that forms fine, needle-like crystals. It is radioactive.

Safe handling: Store in a closed container in a ventilated place away from living areas, and label it. Don't keep it in pockets or bedrooms. Wash your hands after handling, never crush or grind it, and keep it away from children and pets.

Sources: Wikipedia: Uranophane · ATSDR ToxFAQs: Uranium · Mindat: Uranophane. General safety information only, not medical advice. More on safe handling.

🌍 Where it's found

Type locality (where it was first described): Miedzianka, Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Poland

  • Type locality
  • Notable source / deposit
  • Country of origin

Marker positions are approximate (region or locality level). Type localities from Wikidata; notable sources curated by Crystopedia.