EUXENITE
Specimen eux-2

Dims: 1.9 x 0.9 x 0.9" (4.8 x 2.3 x 2.2 cm)

Wt: 1.2 oz. (33 g)

Betroka, Madagascar

This intriguing hand specimen consists of a cluster of heavily-intergrown Euxenite crystals. These crystals are in moderately good condition, showing visible damage in a few areas, but the largest crystals are in very good condition and reach lengths of 1.9" (4.9 cm). Their orthorhombic form is reasonably good, considering their intergrowth, and all are coated with a dull, pale brown crust- damaged areas show their actual brown-black color and greasy luster. The crystals on the front and back are oriented in different directions. I have tested this piece with a Geiger-muller counter, and consider it to be mildly radioactive- storage in a box or behind glass should sufficiently block almost all radiation, but it should be kept away from photosensitive minerals.

Dims: 1.4 x 1.1 x 0.8" (3.6 x 2.8 x 2.1 cm)

Wt: 1.2 oz. (33 g)

Ankazobe, Madagascar

This hand specimen consists of what appears to be several Euxenite crystals that have grown together from various points. They reach lengths of about 1.5" (3.8 cm) and are generally in good condition, as a few are noticeably chipped around their bases. Their intergrowth and the fact that they are coated with a dull, pale-brown crust warps their orthorhombic prismatic form and makes them difficult to study. Only by the damage can one see that their natural color is black and their luster is actually greasy and bright. Besides the crust, there is no other material present.

Dims: 1.98x1.52x1.18" (5.04x3.87x3.00cm)

Wt: 3.89oz (110.0g)

Rare Metals Mine, Mohave County, Arizona, USA

This specimen is mostly massive (or more properly granular) euxenite. It is black, opaque, and has a luster that varies from dull to submetalic. Under a loupe, individual grains may be examined, and these often have a high luster, even a silvery-black appearance. The euxenite is accompanied by a feldspar which is translucent and white, but has been stained brown, possibly by weathered euxenite.