Gadolinite
A variety of Minerals
What is Gadolinite?
Gadolinite, sometimes known as ytterbite, is a silicate mineral consisting principally of the silicates of cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, yttrium, beryllium, and iron with the formula (Ce,La,Nd,Y)2FeBe2Si2O10. It is called gadolinite-(Ce) or gadolinite-(Y), depending on the prominent composing element (Y if yttrium predominates, and Ce if cerium). It may contain 35.5% yttria sub-group rare earths, 2.2% ceria earths, as much as to 11.6% BeO, and traces of thorium. It is found in Sweden, Norway, and the US (Texas and Colorado).
Uses & Applications
Gadolinite and euxenite are quite abundant and are future sources of yttrium sub group rare earths. At present, these elements are recovered from monazite concentrates (after recovery of ceria sub-group metals).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Gadolinite 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.
Gadolinite Localities Map
See where Gadolinite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Gadolinite
Gadolinite is fairly rare and typically occurs as well-formed crystals. It is nearly black in color and has a vitreous luster. The hardness is between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, and the specific gravity is between 4.0 and 4.7. It fractures in a conchoidal pattern and streaks grayish-green. It was also thought to exhibit pyrognomic properties, as it can emit visible light when heated to relatively low temperatures, but the scientific consensus is that this is the product of thermoluminescence
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Nearly black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6.5 - 7
- Streak
- Grayish-green
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Ce,La,Nd,Y)2FeBe2Si2O10
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Gadolinite FAQs
How do I identify Gadolinite?
Gadolinite can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Nearly black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Gadolinite?
Gadolinite typically appears in Nearly black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Gadolinite?
Gadolinite has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the characteristics of gadolinite of Gadolinite?
Gadolinite is fairly rare and typically occurs as well-formed crystals. It is nearly black in color and has a vitreous luster. The hardness is between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, and the specific gravity is between 4.0 and 4.7. It fractures in a conchoidal pattern and streaks grayish-green. It was also thought to exhibit pyrognomic properties, as it can emit visible light when heated to relatively low temperatures, but the scientific consensus is that this is the product of thermoluminescence
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