Metatorbernite is a dehydration product of torbernite, characterized by its vibrant emerald-green, tabular crystals. Collectors should look for distinct square, micaceous plates typically found in the weathered zones of uranium deposits.

Hardness

2.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Pale Green

Transparency

Translucent

mineraluncommonMeta-autunite Group family

Metatorbernite

Hardness: 2.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Pale Green
Transparency: Translucent

Is this metatorbernite?

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 metatorbernite with a known reference. Metatorbernite sits at Mohs 2.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Metatorbernite leaves a pale green streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Metatorbernite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: emerald green, grass green, dark green.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals, micaceous aggregates, crusts.

Often confused with

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

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Metatorbernite leaves pale green, Autunite leaves pale yellow; luster reads vitreous on Metatorbernite and pearly on Autunite.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Metatorbernite leaves pale green, Meta-autunite leaves yellow; luster reads vitreous on Metatorbernite and pearly on Meta-autunite.

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Often found alongside metatorbernite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu(UO₂)₂(PO₄)₂·8H₂O
Mohs hardness: 2.5
Density: 3.7 g/cm³
Colors: Emerald Green Grass Green Dark Green
Streak: Pale Green
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Tetragonal
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals, Micaceous Aggregates, Crusts
Cleavage: Perfect Basal
Rarity: Uncommon
Uses: Collector, Reference Specimen
Host rock: Oxidized Zones of Uranium-bearing Hydrothermal Veins
Typical price: $20-150 for thumbnail to cabinet specimens

Where rockhounds find metatorbernite

Classic worldwide localities

Musonoi Mine, DR Congo
Cornwall, England
Katanga, DR Congo
Rum Jungle, Australia

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized zones of uranium-bearing hydrothermal veins country — that is the host setting where metatorbernite typically forms. If you start seeing torbernite, uraninite, autunite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, micaceous aggregates, crusts habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify metatorbernite?+

Mohs hardness is 2.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is pale green. Common colors include emerald green, grass green, dark green.

Where is metatorbernite found?+

Notable localities include Musonoi Mine, DR Congo; Cornwall, England; Katanga, DR Congo; Rum Jungle, Australia.

How much is metatorbernite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $20-150 for thumbnail to cabinet specimens. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is metatorbernite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. This mineral is radioactive and contains copper and uranium. Always wash hands after handling, avoid inhaling dust, and store in a sealed container away from living areas. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like metatorbernite?+

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

What minerals are found with metatorbernite?+

Metatorbernite commonly co-occurs with Torbernite, Uraninite, Autunite, Malachite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does metatorbernite form in?+

Metatorbernite typically forms in oxidized zones of uranium-bearing hydrothermal veins. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is metatorbernite used for?+

Metatorbernite is used in collector, reference specimen.

Find metatorbernite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.