Metavanmeersscheite is a rare secondary uranium phosphate mineral that typically occurs as small, vibrant yellow platy crystals or crusts. It is most famously associated with the unique mineralogy of the Kobokobo pegmatite in the DRC. Due to its radioactive nature and scarcity, it is sought after primarily by advanced radioactive mineral collectors.

Hardness

2-3

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Pale Yellow

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareMeta-vanmeersscheite group family

Metavanmeersscheite

Hardness: 2-3
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Pale Yellow
Transparency: Translucent

Is this metavanmeersscheite?

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 metavanmeersscheite with a known reference. Metavanmeersscheite 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. Metavanmeersscheite leaves a pale yellow streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Metavanmeersscheite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, bright yellow.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: platy crystals, crusts, radial aggregates.

Often confused with

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

mineral

Vanmeersscheite

Mohs 3

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Metavanmeersscheite leaves pale yellow, Vanmeersscheite leaves yellow.

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Metavanmeersscheite and pearly on Autunite.

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Often found alongside metavanmeersscheite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: U(UO₂)₃(PO₄)₂(OH)₂·4H₂O
Mohs hardness: 2-3
Density: 4.15 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Bright Yellow
Streak: Pale Yellow
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Platy Crystals, Crusts, Radial Aggregates
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Uranium-rich Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find metavanmeersscheite

Classic worldwide localities

Kobokobo pegmatite, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Field-hunting tip

Look in uranium-rich pegmatites country — that is the host setting where metavanmeersscheite typically forms. If you start seeing vanmeersscheite, dewindtite, meta-autunite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals, crusts, radial aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify metavanmeersscheite?+

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

Where is metavanmeersscheite found?+

Notable localities include Kobokobo pegmatite, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

How much is metavanmeersscheite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is metavanmeersscheite safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Radioactive material; use caution when handling, storing, and cleaning. Avoid inhalation of dust or ingestion; wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like metavanmeersscheite?+

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

What minerals are found with metavanmeersscheite?+

Metavanmeersscheite commonly co-occurs with Vanmeersscheite, Dewindtite, Meta-autunite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does metavanmeersscheite form in?+

Metavanmeersscheite typically forms in uranium-rich pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is metavanmeersscheite used for?+

Metavanmeersscheite is used in collector.

Find metavanmeersscheite on the map

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