Uraninite & Hydrocarbons - Temple Mountain Mining District? - Utah, USA

UO₂

The Temple Mountain mining district in Utah is a well-known locality for its rich deposits of uraninite and associated hydrocarbons. Uraninite, a primary uranium mineral, occurs in this area as dense, black, metallic masses or finely disseminated grains within sandstone-hosted uranium deposits. These deposits are often found in the Morrison Formation and are the result of uranium-bearing solutions migrating through porous sandstones, where chemical reactions precipitated the uranium. The presence of vanadium minerals in the area often forms complex mineral assemblages alongside uraninite, adding to the mineralogical diversity. Uraninite from Temple Mountain played a significant role in the region's uranium mining history, particularly during the mid-20th century uranium boom.

A unique and notable feature of the Temple Mountain district is the intimate association of uraninite with hydrocarbons, such as solid bitumen or asphalt-like material. These hydrocarbons are thought to have played a key role in the deposition of uranium, acting as reductants that facilitated the precipitation of uraninite from uranium-bearing fluids. This relationship creates intriguing specimens that combine the metallic luster of uraninite with the dark, resinous appearance of hydrocarbons. Collectors and researchers alike value these specimens for their rarity and for the insight they provide into the geochemical processes that govern uranium deposition. Together, the uraninite and hydrocarbons from Temple Mountain offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of organic and inorganic processes in mineral formation.

Approx. specimen size: 50mm x 45mm x 25mm

Approx. specimen activity using an SE International Ranger EXP: 22 000 cpm