Wakefieldite-(Ce)
Wakefieldite-(Ce) is a rare cerium-dominant rare earth element vanadate mineral with the chemical formula (Ce,La,Nd,Y)VO4. It is a member of the wakefieldite group of minerals.
Properties and Occurrence
Wakefieldite-(Ce) is typically found as microscopic, often metamict (radiation-damaged), crystals. It is usually reddish-brown, yellow, or orange in color. The mineral is characterized by its tetragonal crystal system. It exhibits moderate hardness and a vitreous luster.
It occurs as a secondary mineral in altered granitic pegmatites, hydrothermal veins, and metamorphic rocks. It is often associated with other rare earth element minerals, such as monazite, xenotime, and zircon. The "-(Ce)" suffix in its name denotes that cerium is the dominant rare earth element in its composition.
Identification
Due to its microscopic size and metamict state, Wakefieldite-(Ce) is usually identified through X-ray diffraction analysis or electron microprobe analysis. These techniques allow for the determination of its crystal structure and elemental composition.
Related Minerals
The wakefieldite group includes other minerals with the general formula (REE)VO4, where REE represents a rare earth element. Other members of the group include:
- Wakefieldite-(Y): Yttrium-dominant analogue.
- Xenotime-(Y): Phosphate analogue of Wakefieldite.
Etymology and History
The mineral is named after Wakefield, Massachusetts, where the original wakefieldite (yttrium-dominant analogue) was discovered. The "-(Ce)" suffix was added later to distinguish the cerium-dominant variety.