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.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black, violet-black (fresh); yellowish brown, greenish brown (exposed)
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3 - 4
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
- 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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