Boltwoodite
A variety of Minerals
What is Boltwoodite?
Boltwoodite is a hydrated potassium uranyl silicate mineral with formula HK(UO2)(SiO4)·1.5(H2O). It is formed from the oxidation and alteration of primary uranium ores. It takes the form of a crust on some sandstones that bear uranium. These crusts tend to be yellowish with a silky or vitreous luster.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Boltwoodite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Boltwoodite Localities Map
See where Boltwoodite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Boltwoodite
It was first described in 1956 for an occurrence in Pick's Delta Mine, Delta, San Rafael District (San Rafael Swell), Emery County, Utah, US. It is named after Bertram Boltwood (1870–1927) an American pioneer of radiochemistry. Boltwoodite occurs as secondary silicate alteration crusts surrounding uraninite and as fracture fillings. It is found in pegmatites and sandstone uranium deposits of the Colorado Plateau-type. It occurs associated with uraninite, becquerelite, fourmarierite, phosphouranylite, gypsum and fluorite.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pale yellow, orange yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5 - 4
- Density
- 4.46 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (K,Na)(UO2)(SiO3OH) · 1.5H2O
- Elements
- H, K, Na, O, Si, U
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Boltwoodite FAQs
How do I identify Boltwoodite?
Boltwoodite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Pale yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Boltwoodite?
Boltwoodite typically appears in Pale yellow, orange yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Boltwoodite?
Boltwoodite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of boltwoodite of Boltwoodite?
It was first described in 1956 for an occurrence in Pick's Delta Mine, Delta, San Rafael District (San Rafael Swell), Emery County, Utah, US. It is named after Bertram Boltwood (1870–1927) an American pioneer of radiochemistry. Boltwoodite occurs as secondary silicate alteration crusts surrounding uraninite and as fracture fillings. It is found in pegmatites and sandstone uranium deposits of the Colorado Plateau-type. It occurs associated with uraninite, becquerelite, fourmarierite, phosphouranylite, gypsum and fluorite.
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