Uraninite - Rock Landing Quarry, Haddam Neck, CT, USA

UO₂

Uraninite from the Rock Landing Quarry in Haddam Neck, Connecticut, is a significant mineralogical specimen due to its geological context and its role as a primary uranium mineral. Uraninite ($UO_2$) is a dense, metallic, and highly radioactive mineral, often regarded as the most important ore for uranium extraction. At Rock Landing Quarry, uraninite typically occurs as dark gray to black masses or small crystal aggregates embedded in the granitic pegmatites of the area. These specimens are notable for their high uranium content and the well-defined association with other rare minerals found in the quarry.

The geological environment of Haddam Neck is characterized by complex pegmatite formations that are enriched in rare earth elements, uranium, and thorium. Uraninite at Rock Landing Quarry is found in association with minerals like zircon, monazite, and feldspar, often occurring in fractures and voids within the pegmatite. The uranium-rich fluids that permeated these rocks during their formation contributed to the crystallization of uraninite, which frequently displays altered surfaces due to radioactive decay and weathering.

From a scientific perspective, uraninite specimens from Rock Landing Quarry are of particular interest for radiometric dating and studies of uranium mineralization. The decay of uranium to lead isotopes provides valuable data for understanding the geological history of the area, including the timing of pegmatite formation and the thermal events that influenced the region. Additionally, the alteration products of uraninite, such as secondary uranium minerals like autunite and torbernite, offer further insights into the mobility of uranium in the environment.

Collectors prize uraninite from Rock Landing Quarry for its rarity and historical significance. The quarry has long been known as a source of unique pegmatite minerals, and uraninite specimens from this locality are sought after for their provenance and association with a historically important mining region. The rich black color and dense metallic luster of uraninite, combined with its geological and scientific significance, make these specimens highly desirable.

Approx. specimen size: 50mm x 43mm x 10mm

Approx. specimen activity on an SE International Ranger EXP: 20400 cpm