Uraninite & Fluorite - Cardiff Uranium Mine, Cardiff Township, Hastings County, Ontario, Canada

UO₂

The Cardiff Uranium Mine, located in Ontario, Canada, is a well-known locality for its deposits of uraninite and fluorite, two minerals that exemplify the geological richness of the region. Uraninite, the primary ore of uranium, occurs as black, metallic, and often granular masses within the Precambrian rocks of the Grenville Province. This highly radioactive mineral formed in the region's complex metamorphic and igneous environment, where uranium-rich fluids precipitated in fractures and veins. The Cardiff Mine was part of the uranium boom in Ontario during the mid-20th century, contributing to the nuclear energy sector. Specimens of uraninite from this mine are prized for their historical significance and their role in understanding uranium deposit formation.

Fluorite, a calcium fluoride mineral, is also abundant in the Cardiff Mine, adding a vibrant contrast to the dark uraninite. It typically appears as cubic or octahedral crystals in shades of purple, green, or clear, often associated with calcite and other secondary minerals. Fluorite from this locality is highly sought after by collectors for its aesthetic appeal and its association with uranium minerals, providing a striking visual and mineralogical combination. Together, uraninite and fluorite from the Cardiff Uranium Mine showcase the diversity of mineralization processes in the Grenville geological province, offering insights into the area's rich geochemical history and its significance in both industrial and scientific contexts.

Approx. specimen size: 80mm x 40mm x 30mm

Approx. specimen activity on an SE International Ranger EXP: 61 000 cpm