Bastnäsite-(Ce) (xls), Rhabdophane-(Ce) (xls); Gagasa, Burundi; Min; unique piece
Embedded Bastnäsite-(Ce) and Rhabdophane-(Ce) crystals from Gagasa, Burundi– miniature specimen as unique piece
This min specimen shows embedded Bastnäsite-(Ce) and Rhabdophane-(Ce) crystals from Gagasa in Burundi. The crystals are dispersed within the iron-rich, reddish-brown matrix and form yellowish to light brown matte zones that reflect the characteristic rare-earth mineralization of the locality. Because of their very fine development, the crystals are only visible under magnification, but the typical color zones clearly indicate their presence.
Geology & Origin
Bastnäsite-(Ce) and Rhabdophane-(Ce) are key minerals of the light rare-earth elements and form within hydrothermally altered carbonatitic systems. The Gagasa region of Burundi is known for REE-bearing assemblages produced within weathered carbonatites. Intense alteration processes partly transform primary minerals into secondary phosphates such as Rhabdophane, while Bastnäsite-(Ce), as a typical carbonate, remains stable.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
| Sizes | Description | approx. Sizes in mm/cm | approx. Sizes in INCH | |
| Capsule | Capsule | 0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm) | capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm | capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in |
| TN/mm | Micromount (TN = Thumbnail) | everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in | approx. 0.5–2.5 cm | max. 1 in |
| Min | Miniature specimen | will not fit a TN or MM box anymore | approx. 2.5–5 cm | approx. 0.2–1.0 in |
| Scab | small cabinet specimen | approx. one-third to half a hand size | approx. 5–9 cm | approx. 1.0–2.0 in |
| Cab | cabinet specimen | full hand size | approx. 9–15 cm | approx. 2.0–3.5 in |
| large Cab | large cabinet specimen | approx. two hand sizes | approx. 15–30 cm | approx. 3.5–6.0 in |
| very large Cab | very large cabinet specimen | everything larger, no upper limit |
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| xl | single crystal, possible with matrix |
| xls | noticeable crystals |
| (xl) | embedded or damaged |
| (xls) | embeddet or damaged |
| MASS | massive and/or amorphous pieces |
| TYP | type locality of the original description |
| SWUV | shortwave-UV-reaction |
| UV | ultraviolet reaction |
| SC | self-collected |
| U | unique (single unique piece) |
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH
Steinslieth 11
D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden
Email: info@mikon-online.com
| shipment-weight, NOT netto weight (kg) | 0.080000 |
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