Vandenbrandeite

Vandenbrandeite
General
CategoryMinerals
FormulaCu(UO2)(OH)4
IMA symbolVbd
Strunz classification04.GB.45
Dana classification05.03.02.01
Crystal systemTriclinic
Crystal classTriclinic-Pinacoidal
Space groupP1
Unit cell254.99 ų
Identification
ColorBlackish green to dark green with bluish green tint
CleavagePerfect on {001}, {110}
Distinct and also indisctinct in the [001] zone
FractureNone
TenacityBrittle
Mohs scale hardness4
LusterVitreous, sub-vitreous, greasy
StreakGreen
DiaphaneityTransparent, translucent
Specific gravity5.03
Density5.03
Optical propertiesBiaxial (-)
Refractive indexnα = 1.765 - 1.770 nβ = 1.780 - 1.792 nγ = 1.800
Birefringence0.035
PleochroismVisible
2V angleMeasured 90°
Calculated 60°- 88°
DispersionVisible to strong
Ultraviolet fluorescenceNone
Other characteristics Radioactive

Vandenbrandeite is a mineral named after a belgian geologist, Pierre Van den Brande, who discovered an ore deposit. It was named in 1932, and has been a valid mineral ever since then.