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Rad Man Minerals

Pyrochlore Supergroup (Formerly known as Betafite) – Silver Crater Mine, Haliburton Township, Ontario, Canada

Pyrochlore Supergroup (Formerly known as Betafite) – Silver Crater Mine, Haliburton Township, Ontario, Canada

Regular price $100.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $100.00 USD
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(Ca,Na,U)2(Ti, Nb,Ta)2O6Z(OH)

Betafite, a member of the pyrochlore supergroup, is a fascinating radioactive mineral known for its unique crystal structure and complex composition. Found at the Silver Crater Mine in Bancroft, Ontario, betafite is typically rich in niobium, titanium, and uranium, with a general formula of (Ca,U)2(Nb,Ti)2O7nH2O(Ca,U)_{2}(Nb,Ti)_{2}O_{7} \cdot nH_{2}O. The mineral crystallizes in the isometric system, forming octahedral or cubic crystals, often with a yellow-brown to greenish-black hue. Specimens from Silver Crater Mine are especially prized for their sharp crystallography and historical significance in Canadian mineralogy.

The Silver Crater Mine is located in a pegmatitic environment known for its diverse and rare mineral assemblages. Betafite is commonly found here embedded within granitic pegmatites and associated with other minerals like zircon, feldspar, and uraninite. These geological conditions create ideal settings for the formation of betafite, which occurs as inclusions or isolated crystals. The presence of uranium and thorium in the mineral contributes to its slight radioactivity, making it a notable example of naturally radioactive minerals.

Silver Crater’s betafite specimens are of particular interest to both collectors and researchers. The mineral’s radioactive properties provide valuable opportunities for studying nuclear decay processes and understanding the geochronology of uranium-rich minerals. Additionally, betafite’s complex chemical composition makes it an intriguing subject for research into mineralogical substitutions and the behavior of niobium and titanium in pegmatitic systems. The well-preserved crystals from this locality also make it an important source for advancing the study of pyrochlore group minerals.

From an aesthetic standpoint, betafite crystals from the Silver Crater Mine exhibit remarkable form and color, often set against the contrasting matrix of the host rock. Collectors value these specimens not only for their visual appeal but also for their provenance, as the mine is internationally recognized for its rare mineral discoveries. Betafite's sharp, geometric crystals make it a standout in any collection, blending both beauty and scientific significance.


Approx. activity: 37 000 cpm on an SE International Ranger EXP

Approx. size: 20mm x 20mm x 15mm

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