This flat combines a diverse selection of Pandorite, Zippeite, Phurcalite and Pascoite crystals from the classic uranium localities of the Pandora Mine and the Posey Mine in Utah, USA. The specimens mainly show flat to massive mineralization surfaces on which the crystals occur as yellow, yellow green to greenish coatings, crusts and crystalline areas. Strong color contrasts between the uranium minerals and the darker host rock define the overall appearance of the flat. A large number of the specimens are clearly UV reactive, highlighting the diversity of the mineral assemblages. The illustrated flat shows exactly the offered assortment and is offered as a unique flat.
Geology & Origin
The Pandora Mine and the Posey Mine are among the most important uranium deposits in the southwestern United States. Within the oxidation zones of these deposits, numerous secondary uranium minerals formed through the alteration of primary uranium phases under the influence of carbonate, sulfate and vanadate rich solutions. Pandorite, Zippeite, Phurcalite and Pascoite are characteristic products of these processes and commonly occur together. Both localities are internationally renowned for their exceptional diversity of fluorescent uranium minerals and are considered reference sites for secondary uranium mineralization.