Laplandite-(Ce)

Laplandite-(Ce) is a relatively rare silicate mineral with the chemical formula NaCe(Ti,Nb)Si₂O₇(O,F)₂·nH₂O. It belongs to the laplandite group of minerals and is characterized by the presence of cerium (Ce) as the dominant rare-earth element.

Composition and Properties:

Laplandite-(Ce) is a hydrated titanosilicate of sodium and cerium, typically containing niobium as well. Its appearance can vary but it is often found as translucent to opaque, colorless, white, pink, or brownish tabular crystals or masses. It exhibits a vitreous luster. Its hardness is generally low, around 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale. The density varies depending on the exact composition but is typically around 3.2 g/cm³. Laplandite-(Ce) is known to be radioactive due to the presence of thorium and uranium within its structure.

Occurrence and Formation:

Laplandite-(Ce) is a rare mineral typically found in alkaline igneous rocks, specifically in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins associated with these rocks. It forms under specific geological conditions where there is an abundance of rare-earth elements and high alkalinity. Significant occurrences have been reported in the Kola Peninsula of Russia (the type locality), and other locations worldwide where similar alkaline igneous environments exist.

Uses:

Due to its rarity, laplandite-(Ce) does not have significant industrial uses. However, it is of interest to mineral collectors and scientific researchers studying the geochemistry of rare-earth elements and the formation of alkaline igneous rocks.

Identification:

Laplandite-(Ce) can be identified through a combination of its physical properties, X-ray diffraction analysis, and chemical analysis. The presence of cerium as the dominant rare-earth element, along with its association with alkaline igneous rocks, is a key indicator. The radioactive nature of the mineral is another characteristic feature.

Related Minerals:

Laplandite-(Ce) is part of the laplandite group, which includes other rare-earth-bearing titanosilicates. Distinguishing between members of this group typically requires detailed chemical analysis.