Parauranophane

This specimen features a druse of fine, prismatic, yellow needle-like micro-crystals of parauranophane on a granite matrix of white albite, smoky quartz, and muscovite. Previously known as uranophane-β, this mineral was recognized as a dimorph of uranophane until 2022, when the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) officially renamed it parauranophane.

Sourced from the Spruce Pine Mining District in North Carolina—a 25-mile-long region spanning Mitchell, Yancey, and Avery counties—this area is renowned for its feldspar, mica, kaolin, quartz, and gem-quality minerals, including emeralds and aquamarines. Notably, the district supplies 70–90% of the world's high-purity quartz (HPQ), a critical material for semiconductor and solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing.

Note for international customers: This specimen is radioactive. Please ensure your country permits the import of such materials before ordering. Contact me in advance with any specific shipping questions or concerns.

--

This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal.