Leószilárdite
A variety of Minerals
What is Leószilárdite?
Leószilárdite is a mineral discovered by Travis Olds of the University of Notre Dame and colleagues in the Markey Mine in Utah, USA. They named the mineral in honor of Leó Szilárd, Hungarian-born physicist and inventor. Leószilárdite is the first naturally occurring sodium- and magnesium-containing uranyl carbonate. It is rare and water-soluble, and was discovered on a seam of carbon-rich material deposited by an ancient stream. Groundwater reacted with the uraninite ore to create leószilárdite and other minerals.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Leószilárdite 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.
Leószilárdite Localities Map
See where Leószilárdite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pale yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Na6Mg(UO2)2(CO3)6·6H2O
- Elements
- C, H, Mg, Na, O, U
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Leószilárdite FAQs
How do I identify Leószilárdite?
Leószilárdite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Pale yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Leószilárdite?
Leószilárdite typically appears in Pale yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Leószilárdite?
Leószilárdite has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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