What is Vanuralite?
Vanuralite is a rare hydrated aluminium uranyl vanadate, known from yellow microscopic crystals in oxidised uranium-vanadium deposits.
Mineralogy and structure
Reference formula: Al(UO2)2(VO4)2(OH)·11H2O. Vanuralite is monoclinic and strongly hydrated. No suitable public COD model was selected for this batch, so no artificial lattice is shown. The formula and name reflect vanadium, uranium and aluminium. Vanuralite is classified with vanadates and has monoclinic crystal symmetry. Typical hardness is 2–2 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 3.2–3.5.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include lemon-yellow, yellow, orange-yellow. The usual platy, crusty, microscopic habit and vitreous, pearly, dull lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Vanuralite forms in or is associated with secondary oxidation zones of uranium-vanadium ores and weathered mine workings. Important documented localities include Mounana and Oklo in Gabon, France and other rare uranium-vanadium districts.
A rare yellow uranium-vanadate reference
Vanuralite is a specialist species where chemistry and provenance dominate the commercial story. A tiny authenticated sample can document a very specific oxidation environment.
Collecting and care
Radioactive and fragile: keep enclosed and dry, avoid dust and heat, and follow radiation-safety procedures for study and display.
