Meta-Autunite from Portugal – Assunção Mine
Includes perky box and label!
Brilliant Yellow Meta-Autunite – Classic Portuguese Uranium Mineral
Offered here is an attractive specimen of Meta-Autunite, a hydrated calcium uranyl phosphate mineral displaying vibrant lemon-yellow crystalline coatings across a contrasting light-colored dolomitematrix. Meta-autunite forms through the natural dehydration of autunite and remains one of the most recognizable and desirable secondary uranium minerals sought by collectors worldwide.
This specimen originates from the historic Assunção Mine in the Viseu District of Portugal, a well-known uranium-producing locality that yielded a variety of colorful secondary uranium minerals. The bright coloration and excellent coverage make this an eye-catching display piece for collectors of uranium minerals, radioactive minerals, and classic European localities.
Chemical Formula (Autunite Group):
Ca(UO₂)₂(PO₄)₂·10–12H₂O
Specimen Details
- Species: Meta-Autunite
- Locality: Assunção Mine, Aldeia Nova, Ferreira de Aves, Sátão, Viseu, Portugal
- Ex. Collection: Eric Quinter Collection
- Collection Number: U/Th 0780
- Color: Bright fluorescent yellow to yellow-green
- Matrix: Light-colored host rock with extensive Meta-Autunite coverage
- Display Box Included: Yes
About Meta-Autunite
Meta-Autunite is a secondary uranium mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of uranium deposits. It is closely related to autunite and is produced when autunite gradually loses part of its water content over time. Specimens are prized for their vivid coloration and their association with historic uranium mining districts around the world.
This specimen represents a classic occurrence from Portugal and would make an excellent addition to any collection of uranium minerals, radioactive minerals, fluorescent minerals, or notable European mineral localities.
Ex. Eric Quinter Collection
Assunção Mine, Portugal
A fine collector specimen from a historic European uranium locality.
