Wyartite

A variety of Minerals

What is Wyartite?

Wyartite CaU(UO2)2(CO3)O4(OH)·7H2O is a uranium bearing mineral named after Jean Wyart (1902–1992), mineralogist at the Sorbonne, Paris. It has greenish-black, black, or violet-black, translucent to opaque orthorhombic crystals. A hardness of 3 - 4 Mohs. Its other names are Ianthinite (of Bignand), Wyartit and Wyartita. It belongs to the uranium carbonate group of minerals. It is found next to rutherfordine in Shinkolobwe, Shaba, Zaire. Determination of the structure of wyartite provided the first evidence for a pentavalent uranium mineral. Like all uranium minerals it is radioactive.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Wyartite 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.

Wyartite Localities Map

See where Wyartite 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.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Black, violet-black (fresh); yellowish brown, greenish brown (exposed)
Hardness (Mohs)
3 - 4
Density
4.69 g/cm³
Streak
brownish-violet

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
CaU5+(UO2)2(CO3)O4(OH) · 7H2O
Elements
C, Ca, H, O, U
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Wyartite FAQs

How do I identify Wyartite?

Wyartite can be identified by its hardness of 3 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Wyartite?

Wyartite typically appears in Black, violet-black (fresh); yellowish brown, greenish brown (exposed). Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Wyartite?

Wyartite has a hardness of 3 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

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