About Samarskite Y
A group of complex REE-niobate-tantalate minerals, often black and metamict (radioactive). They are grounding stones associated with transformation and Earth energies.
Primary Hues
Velvet-Black, Brownish-Black, often with a vitreous to resinous luster, conchoidal fracture
Geological & Scientific Details
Samarskite Y is classified as a oxide minerals mineral which typically crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. Its chemical formula is (YFe3+Fe2+U,Th,Ca)2(Nb,Ta)2O8. Common crystal habits include crystals elongated with pyramidal terminations; commonly granular to massive.
Key Geological Properties:
- Mineral Category: Oxide minerals
- Chemical Formula: (YFe3+Fe2+U,Th,Ca)2(Nb,Ta)2O8
- IMA Symbol: Smk-Y[1]
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Predominant Geological Color: Black, may have a brownish tint, brown to yellowish brown due to alteration; light to dark brown in transmitted light
- Crystal Habit: Crystals elongated with pyramidal terminations; commonly granular to massive
- Cleavage: {010}, indistinct
- Luster: Vitreous – resinous
- Streak: Reddish brown
- Diaphaneity: Opaque, transparent in thin fragments