Lepersonnite-(Gd) is a rare uranyl carbonate-silicate mineral found almost exclusively in the Shinkolobwe mine. It is highly prized by collectors for its vibrant yellow color, distinct bladed habit, and intense fluorescence under ultraviolet light.

Hardness

2-3

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Yellow

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrare

Lepersonnite-(Gd)

Hardness: 2-3
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Yellow
Transparency: Transparent

Is this lepersonnite-(gd)?

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 lepersonnite-(gd) with a known reference. Lepersonnite-(Gd) 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. Lepersonnite-(Gd) leaves a yellow streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Lepersonnite-(Gd) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, yellowish-orange.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: acicular or bladed crystals, radiating clusters.

Often confused with

Lepersonnite-(Gd) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

mineral

Schuilingite-(Nd)

Mohs 3.5

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Lepersonnite-(Gd) leaves yellow, Schuilingite-(Nd) leaves white.

Compare →

Often found alongside lepersonnite-(gd)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: CaGd₂(UO₂)₂₄(CO₃)₈(SiO₄)₄(OH)₂₄·48H₂O
Mohs hardness: 2-3
Density: 4.1 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Yellowish-orange
Streak: Yellow
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Acicular or Bladed Crystals, Radiating Clusters
Cleavage: None
Fluorescence: Bright Yellow-green Under SW UV
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Zones of Uranium Deposits
Typical price: $100-1000 per specimen depending on size and quality

Where rockhounds find lepersonnite-(gd)

Classic worldwide localities

Shinkolobwe mine, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized zones of uranium deposits country — that is the host setting where lepersonnite-(gd) typically forms. If you start seeing curite, kasolite, studtite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a acicular or bladed crystals, radiating clusters habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify lepersonnite-(gd)?+

Mohs hardness is 2-3. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is yellow. Common colors include yellow, yellowish-orange.

Where is lepersonnite-(gd) found?+

Notable localities include Shinkolobwe mine, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

How much is lepersonnite-(gd) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $100-1000 per specimen depending on size and quality. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is lepersonnite-(gd) safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Contains uranium and heavy rare earth elements; emits ionizing radiation and poses chemical toxicity risks. Handle with gloves and wash hands thoroughly after contact. Do not inhale dust or store in living areas. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like lepersonnite-(gd)?+

Lepersonnite-(Gd) is most often confused with Schuilingite-(Nd). A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with lepersonnite-(gd)?+

Lepersonnite-(Gd) commonly co-occurs with Curite, Kasolite, Studtite, Widenmannite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does lepersonnite-(gd) form in?+

Lepersonnite-(Gd) typically forms in oxidized zones of uranium deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is lepersonnite-(gd) used for?+

Lepersonnite-(Gd) is used in collector.

Find lepersonnite-(gd) on the map

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