Crytolite Zircon in Matrix - SARANAC Properties, Hastings County, Ontario, Canada

Zr[(SiO₄),(OH)₄]

Cyrtolite zircon from the Saranac properties in Ontario is a metamict variety of zircon, typically rich in uranium and thorium, which causes its crystal structure to become partially amorphous over time due to radiation damage. These zircons often exhibit a brown to reddish-brown coloration with an opaque, resinous to vitreous luster. Under UV light, they may display weak fluorescence due to their radioactive content. The zircons from this locality commonly occur in association with pegmatitic and granitic host rocks, where they form as small, rounded to irregular grains rather than well-developed crystals.

The Saranac properties, located in the Bancroft region of Ontario, are known for their diverse suite of rare minerals, particularly those enriched in uranium and thorium. Cyrtolite specimens from this area are of particular interest to collectors due to their high radioactivity and unique metamict textures, often displaying a distinctive, almost greasy surface sheen. These zircons are frequently found embedded in feldspar-rich matrixes alongside minerals such as biotite, apatite, and fluorite. Due to their uranium content, handling precautions are recommended, especially when storing them in close proximity to other sensitive mineral specimens.

Approx. specimen size: 115mm x 70mm x 20mm

Approx. specimen activity on an SE International Ranger EXP: 1900 cpm