Florida Geological Survey - Geology Topics
|
|
|
Identification: Monazite (Ce,La,Nd,Th)PO4,
is a complex yellow to reddish-brown natural phosphate of the rare earth
elements, mainly the cerium and lanthanum metals with some thorium. Yttrium,
calcium, iron, and silica may be present. Specimens are translucent to
opaque, but small crystals can be transparent. Hardness is 5 - 5.5, and
specific gravity is approximately 4.6 - 5.7.
Occurrence: Occurs as grains in beach and Trail Ridge heavy
mineral sands. Use: Monazite is an important source of cerium, thorium, and
other rare-earth metals and compounds.
|
 |
|
2012 State of Florida