Uraninite Crystal - Cardiff Uranium Mine, Cardiff Township, Hastings County, Ontario, Canada

UO₂

Uraninite crystals from the Cardiff Uranium Mine in Ontario are a notable example of one of the most significant uranium-bearing minerals. Uraninite, with the chemical formula $UO_2$, is a dense, black mineral that is the primary ore of uranium. At the Cardiff Mine, these crystals are found in their classic form: dark, lustrous, and typically exhibiting cubic or octahedral habits. Their appearance is enhanced by their vitreous to submetallic luster, making them a favorite among mineral collectors and researchers interested in uranium-rich deposits.

The Cardiff Uranium Mine is located in the Bancroft area of Ontario, a region renowned for its mineral diversity and pegmatitic geology. Uraninite at this site occurs within granitic pegmatites and metamorphic rocks, often associated with other minerals like feldspar, biotite, and zircon. The uranium-rich nature of these deposits reflects the region's unique geological history, where high-temperature processes facilitated the concentration of heavy elements like uranium and thorium, creating ideal conditions for uraninite formation.

Specimens from the Cardiff Mine are of great scientific and historical interest. Uraninite's radioactive properties have made it a cornerstone mineral for nuclear science, from the development of nuclear energy to radiometric dating techniques. The Cardiff crystals, with their relatively high purity and well-defined forms, provide valuable material for understanding uranium's behavior in geological systems. Additionally, the mineral's radioactive decay products, such as radium and lead isotopes, offer insights into geological time scales and the history of Earth's crust.

The visual appeal of uraninite crystals from the Cardiff Uranium Mine is complemented by their rarity and provenance. These specimens are sought after for their sharp crystal forms and rich black coloration, contrasting strikingly with their host rock. The historical significance of the Cardiff Mine, which operated during the mid-20th century uranium boom, further elevates the status of these crystals. Whether studied for their scientific value or admired for their aesthetic qualities, uraninite crystals from this locality remain a testament to Ontario's rich mineral heritage and its contributions to the understanding of radioactive minerals.

Approx. specimen size: 10mm x 9mm x 8mm

Approx. specimen activity on an SE International Ranger EXP: 40000 cpm