Guide
Torbernite specimens for sale
2 for sale · $500 USD
62 in the gallery
Torbernite is a hydrated copper uranyl phosphate mineral. It forms tabular, prismatic crystals that often occur in compact, radiating aggregates with a bright green to yellow-green color and a glassy to pearly surface. The material’s characteristic appearance, including its vivid color and commonly foliated habit, makes it a striking specimen for display, though it is sensitive to light and dehydration that can alter its form over time. Notable regional sources include specimens from DR Congo, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany, where irradiance and mineral-rich deposits have yielded well-crystallized pockets.
- Formula
- Cu(UO2)2(PO4)2 · 12H2O
- Rarity
- Common
- Stability
- Unstable
- Collector interest
- High Interest
- Classification notes
- Phosphate mineral; uranyl phosphate with copper; hydrated
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- tetragonal
- Mohs hardness
- 2–2.5
- Specific gravity
- 3.2–3.22
- Luster
- vitreous, pearly
- Transparency
- transparent, translucent
- Color
- green
- Streak
- green
- Cleavage
- perfect
- Fracture
- uneven
- Crystal habit
- tabular, prismatic, massive, granular
- Radioactive
- Classic / historic
Buy Torbernite specimens
View all 2Where Torbernite is found
Top localities
- Musonoi Mine8 specimens
- Margabal Mine7 specimens
- Gunnislake2 specimens
- Republic of the Congo1 specimen
- Golconda pegmatite field1 specimen
- Johanngeorgenstadt1 specimen
- Kolwezi mining district1 specimen
- Panasqueira Mines1 specimen
- Shinkolobwe1 specimen
- Wheal Buller1 specimen
Guides
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About Torbernite
Collectors prize Torbernite for its vibrant hue and dramatic crystal groups, while also noting its historical role in uranium-bearing mineral associations. Fine examples exhibit sharp, tabular blades and a well-developed, nearly greenish-black patina on some faces, reflecting its copper- and uranium-rich chemistry. While care must be taken due to radioluminescent tendencies in older or oxidized specimens, well-preserved Torbernite blends color, habit, and locality into a classic piece for display and study.
