Heisenbergite is a secondary uranium mineral characterized by its distinctive yellow color and platy, micaceous habit. It is found in the oxidized zones of uranium-rich ore deposits and is highly prized by collectors for its strong fluorescence under ultraviolet light.

Hardness

2-3

Mohs

Luster

Pearly

Streak

Yellow

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrare

Heisenbergite

Hardness: 2-3
Luster: Pearly
Streak: Yellow
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this heisenbergite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch heisenbergite with a known reference. Heisenbergite sits at Mohs 2-3, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Heisenbergite leaves a yellow streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Heisenbergite typically shows a pearly luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: platy or micaceous aggregates.

Often confused with

Heisenbergite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

mineral

Autunite

Mohs 2-2.5

How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Heisenbergite leaves yellow, Autunite leaves pale yellow.

Often found alongside heisenbergite

Minerals reported to co-occur with heisenbergite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: UO₂(OH)₂·H₂O
Mohs hardness: 2-3
Density: 3.5-3.8 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow
Streak: Yellow
Luster: Pearly
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Platy or Micaceous Aggregates
Cleavage: Perfect Basal
Fluorescence: Bright Green Under UV Light
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Uranium Deposits
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity

Where rockhounds find heisenbergite

Classic worldwide localities

Joachimsthal, Czech Republic
Shinkolobwe, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Great Bear Lake, Canada

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized uranium deposits country, the host setting where heisenbergite typically forms. If you start seeing uraninite, gummite, boltwoodite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy or micaceous aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify heisenbergite?+

Mohs hardness is 2-3. It typically shows a pearly luster. The streak is yellow. Common colors include yellow.

Where is heisenbergite found?+

Notable localities include Joachimsthal, Czech Republic; Shinkolobwe, Democratic Republic of the Congo; Great Bear Lake, Canada.

How much is heisenbergite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is heisenbergite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. This mineral is both radioactive and toxic due to its uranium content. Handle with gloves, keep in a sealed container, and wash hands thoroughly after contact; avoid inhaling dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like heisenbergite?+

Heisenbergite is most often confused with Autunite, Meta-autunite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with heisenbergite?+

Heisenbergite commonly co-occurs with Uraninite, Gummite, Boltwoodite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does heisenbergite form in?+

Heisenbergite typically forms in oxidized uranium deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is heisenbergite used for?+

Heisenbergite is used in collector.

Find heisenbergite on the map

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