This mineral is the base form of uranium, and so is radioactive.

Chemical Formula: Ca(UO2)2(PO4)2•10-12H2O1
Class: Ore of Uranium Crystals, secondary mineral
Hardness: 2-2.5
Coloration: Lemon yellow and pale green.

How to identify it/Unique Characteristics or Properties: This mineral is the base form of uranium, and so is radioactive. This mineral is found “wet” and can dry out and crumble (as in our picture) if the moisture evaporates. It also changes from autunite to meta-autunite when it dries. When still moist this tends to have translucent crystals standing up on edge.

Where to find it in…

The Northwest: Lake County OR, Spokane WA.
Other: France, England, India, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Japan, Arizona US
Past Uses: This is fluorescent and radioactive and so has been both a fun rock for collectors and a source of uranium.
How it was Made: The particular piece shown here has dried out and changed composition extensively.
Interesting Facts: Some pieces really do glow, and emit radiation.