Curite

Curite
Curite
General
Category	Oxide mineral
Formula (repeating unit)	Pb3(UO2)8O8(OH)6·3(H2O)
Strunz classification	4.GB.55
Crystal system	Orthorhombic
Crystal class	Dipyramidal (mmm) H-M symbol: (2/m 2/m 2/m)
Space group	Pnam
Unit cell	a = 12.551 Å, b = 7.008 Å, c = 6.983 Å; Z = 2
Identification
Color	Yellow, reddish orange, brownish yellow.
Crystal habit	Massive, acicular, compact earthy.
Cleavage	{100}, imperfect
Tenacity	Brittle
Mohs scale hardness	4-5
Luster	Adamantine
Streak	Orange
Diaphaneity	Transparent
Specific gravity	6.98 - 7.4
Optical properties	Biaxial (-)
Refractive index	nα = 2.060 nβ = 2.110 nγ = 2.150
Birefringence	.090
Pleochroism	Visible: X = b = pale yellow, Y = a = light red-orange, Z = c = dark red-orange
2V angle	70°
Ultraviolet fluorescence	Yes
Other characteristics	Radioactive
References	[1][2]

Curite is a lead uranium oxide mineral with formula: Pb₃(UO₂)₈O₈(OH)₆·3(H₂O). It is named after the physicists Marie and Pierre Curie, who are both known for their work on radioactivity. The type locality is the Shinkolobwe Mine.^[1]

References