Soddyite

This exceptionally rare specimen features the hydrated uranium silicate species soddyite. It consists of transparent to opaque canary-yellow to amber-yellow crystals, forming as a combination of dipyramids and pinacoids, up to 1 mm in size, scattered across a limonite-stained, siliceous matrix. Also present are a few prismatic microcrystals of orange curite, a well-known uranium mineral.

This palm-sized specimen originates from the famed Musonoi Mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a classic locality for uranium mineralization. While the soddyite crystals are microscopic, their rich yellow colouration and blocky orthorhombic habit make them a striking find, best appreciated with a loupe or under a microscope. Originally acquired through exchange with R. Coussement of Mouscron, Belgium, in the summer of 1969, this is a historic and highly desirable example of this rare species.

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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