Uraninite
A variety of Uraninite Group
What is Uraninite?
Uraninite is a radioactive mineral that is found around the world. Also called "pitchblende", uraninite is mined for its uranium, which is used to fuel nuclear power plants. Specimens come in a wide variety of weird and intriguing forms, but are rarely sought after by collectors due to the radioactivity.
Etymology & Origins
Uraninite used to be known as pitchblende (from pitch, because of its black color, and blende, from blenden meaning "to deceive", a term used by German miners to denote minerals whose density suggested metal content, but whose exploitation, at the time they were named, was either unknown or not economically feasible).
Uses & Applications
Uraninite is a primary source of uranium, which in turn is used for a variety of purposes, particularly for nuclear power. Because it is radioactive, it can also be used for radiometric dating of rocks, and it historically has been important for understanding the nature of radioactive elements.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Uraninite 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.
Uraninite Localities Map
See where Uraninite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Uraninite
Uraninite is a major ore of uranium. Some of the highest grade uranium ores in the world were found in the Shinkolobwe mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the initial source for the Manhattan Project) and in the Athabasca Basin in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. Another important source of pitchblende is at Great Bear Lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada, where it is found in large quantities associated with silver. It also occurs in Australia, the Czech Republic, Germany, England, Rwanda, Namibia and South Africa. In the United States, it can be found in the states of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina and Wyoming. The geologist Charles Steen made a fortune on the production of uraninite in his Mi Vida mine in Moab, Utah. Uranium ore is generally processed close to the mine into yellowcake, which is an intermediate step in the processing of uranium.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Uraninite is toxic due to its Radioactivity.
- ⚠️Uraninite contains radioactive uranium. Radioactivity should be assessed using a Geiger counter before handling. Inhalation of the dust, or keep them by your side for a long time will be hazardous. Keep them in a closed box and in an well-ventilated place. Wash your hand after handling them.
- ⚠️Uraninite contains radioactive uranium. It is recommended to use a Geiger counter to measure radiation levels before handling. Wear gloves and a mask to prevent skin and lung exposure to radioactive dust. Wash your hands and clothes after handling it. Store it in a closed box in a well-ventilated area away from people.
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black, brownish-black, greyish, greenish
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 6
- Density
- 10.88 g/cm³
- Streak
- Brownish black, grayish, olive-green
- Luster
- Greasy, Metallic
- Crystal System
- Isometric
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- UO2
- Elements
- O, U
Also Known As
Identify Uraninite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Uraninite FAQs
How do I identify Uraninite?
Uraninite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Black color, Greasy, Metallic luster, Isometric crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Uraninite?
Uraninite typically appears in Black, brownish-black, greyish, greenish. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Uraninite?
Uraninite has a hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of uraninite of Uraninite?
Uraninite is a major ore of uranium. Some of the highest grade uranium ores in the world were found in the Shinkolobwe mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the initial source for the Manhattan Project) and in the Athabasca Basin in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. Another important source of pitchblende is at Great Bear Lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada, where it is found in large quantities associated with silver. It also occurs in Australia, the Czech Republic, Germany, England, Rwanda, Namibia and South Africa. In the United States, it can be found in the states of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina and Wyoming. The geologist Charles Steen made a fortune on the production of uraninite in his Mi Vida mine in Moab, Utah. Uranium ore is generally processed close to the mine into yellowcake, which is an intermediate step in the processing of uranium.