Samarskite-(Y)

Formula: (Fe,Y,Ca,U,Ce)(Nb,Ta,Ti)O4

Origin of name: for V. Samarski-Byhovets, Russian engineer

 

Crystal system: orthorhombic

Crystal class: 2/m 2/m 2/m

Twinning:

Unit cell: 

 

Colour: velvety black, exterior brownish or yellowish

Diaphaneity: opaque to translucent  in thin fragments

Luster: vitreous, resinous, submetallic on fresh fracture

Habit: crystals prismatic, rectangular cross section, may be elongated, tabular or flattened, massive, compact

Hardness: 5 to 6

Specific gravity: 5.15 to 5.69

Cleavage: 1; {010} distinct

Tenacity: 

Streak: black to reddish brown

 

Synonyms/varieties:

 

Comments: 

 

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