Gadolinite-(ce)

Gadolinite-(Ce)

A variety of Minerals

What is Gadolinite-(ce)?

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).

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Gadolinite-(ce) 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Gadolinite-(ce) Localities Map

See where Gadolinite-(ce) is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Key Characteristics

Characteristics of Gadolinite-(ce)

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
Black
Hardness (Mohs)
6.5 - 7
Density
4.2 g/cm³

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
(Ce,La,Nd,Y)2Fe2+Be2Si2O10 Often slightly radioactive due to minor U and/or Th contents; therefore often metamict.
Elements
Be, Ce, Fe, La, Nd, O, Si, Y
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Gadolinite-(ce) FAQs

How do I identify Gadolinite-(ce)?

Gadolinite-(ce) can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Gadolinite-(ce)?

Gadolinite-(ce) typically appears in Black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Gadolinite-(ce)?

Gadolinite-(ce) has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

What is the characteristics of gadolinite-(ce) of Gadolinite-(ce)?

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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