Lakebogaite

Chemical formula: NaCaFe<sup>3+</sup><sub>2</sub>H(U<sup>6+</sup>O<sub>2</sub>)<sub>2</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>4</sub>(OH)<sub>2</sub>·8H<sub>2</sub>O

Lakebogaite is a very rare, radioactive secondary mineral from the phosphate group, found in granitic pegmatites.

## Characteristics Lakebogaite is a very rare mineral from the phosphate class, chemically classified as a hydrated sodium, calcium, iron, and uranyl phosphate. It occurs as very fine, platy or acicular crystals that form rosette-like or radial aggregates. Individual crystals reach a length of up to 0.2 mm. Due to its composition, the mineral is strongly radioactive. ## Physical Properties Lakebogaite crystals exhibit a luster described as vitreous to silky. They are transparent to translucent. Hardness and density have not been precisely measured due to the small size and rarity of samples. ## Colors and Varieties This mineral has a characteristic, pale yellow color. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name Lakebogaite was first described in 2004 by mineralogists D.E. Hibbs, P. Leverett, J.A. Weil, P.C. Williams, and W.D. Birch. The name comes from its discovery locality – the Lake Boga granite quarry in Victoria, Australia. It was approved as a new mineral by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) under number 2003-054. ## Uses Lakebogaite has no practical or commercial use. Its significance is purely scientific and as a collector's item, as a unique and rare mineralogical specimen.

Properties

Luster
Vitreous to silky
Streak
Light yellow
Cleavage
Perfect on {010}
Fracture
Uneven
Transparency
Transparent to translucent
Crystal system
Monoclinic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Identification of lakebogaite is based on its unique occurrence environment (granitic pegmatites), characteristic pale yellow color, form of fine, acicular crystals forming radial aggregates, and strong radioactivity. Final confirmation requires advanced analytical methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and chemical analysis (EDS). ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals Lakebogaite can be confused with other yellow secondary uranium minerals such as autunite, torbernite, or uranophane. It is distinguished from them by its specific crystal morphology (thin plates/needles in radial aggregates) and unique chemical composition, containing sodium, calcium, and iron simultaneously. Unlike autunite, it does not exhibit strong fluorescence under UV light. ## Crystal Forms Crystals are very small, in the form of thin, flattened plates or needles. They usually occur as radial or rosette-like aggregates, growing up to about 0.2 mm in diameter.

Geological environment

## Genesis Lakebogaite is a secondary mineral, formed in the oxidation zone of uranium deposits. It forms as a result of weathering and alteration processes of primary uranium minerals in an environment rich in phosphorus, sodium, calcium, and iron. Its occurrence is limited to voids and fractures in granitic pegmatites. ## Mineral Associations This mineral occurs in association with other secondary uranium phosphates, such as saleeite, autunite, torbernite, and cyrilovite. It also co-occurs with fluorite, apatite, smoky quartz, and minerals from the mica group. ## Localities The only confirmed locality of lakebogaite in the world is its type locality – the Lake Boga granite quarry, located approximately 16 km southeast of the town of the same name in Victoria, Australia.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria The quality of a lakebogaite specimen is primarily assessed based on the size and development of the radial crystal aggregates. The most desirable are those that form distinct, undamaged "suns" or "stars" on a contrasting matrix rock. Due to the microscopic size of the crystals, specimens are evaluated under magnification. A contrasting matrix (e.g., dark smoky quartz) significantly enhances visual value. ## Popular Localities The only source of specimens is the Lake Boga quarry in Australia. Material from this locality is extremely difficult to obtain, and the quarry itself is not publicly accessible, making each specimen unique.

Care and storage

## Cleaning This mineral is extremely rare and fragile. It should not be cleaned mechanically or chemically. Any treatment can irreversibly damage the delicate crystals. If absolutely necessary, compressed air can be used from a safe distance to remove dust. ## What to Avoid Contact with water, acids, bases, and all solvents must be strictly avoided. The mineral is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. As a uranium mineral, it is radioactive – direct, prolonged contact and inhalation of dust should be avoided. Wash hands after each contact. ## Storage Specimens should be stored under stable conditions, in a closed, padded "micromount" box, away from light, moisture, and vibrations. Due to its radioactivity, it should be stored away from other radiation-sensitive minerals and away from areas of permanent human habitation, with appropriate labeling.

Sources

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