Description/Interesting Notes:
A rare, old time example of thucholite after uraninite from the type locality in Canada!!! Thucholite is a rare
varietal of pyrobitumen that derives its name from its content of Thorium (Th), Uranium (U), Carbon (C), and Hydrogen (H)!!!
Essentially, thuholite is a variable mixture of hydrocarbons in addition to uranium and thorium related species!!! The
main pseudomorph exhibits a lively yellow color and is very glassy with marked clarity in the center!!! In addition to this
main pseudomorph, there are numerous other smaller areas that exhibit more classic, darkly colored, blackish areas of what
are likely complex combinations of pyrobitumen var. thucholite in addition to other uranium bearing species!!! While this
specimen might superficially resemble "gummite," another combination of uranium alteration species, it is decidedly different
material upon close inspection in person (it is also worth noting that this locality was noted for producing "yellow" oil in
both liquid and hardened forms)!!! The main crystal measures over .8cm and one can see some
well defined right-angled features where it meets the matrix!!! Fascinating and unusual rare material!!! This is OLD material from the Sorbonne Museum in France and retains an old
label from Willy Hirsch (ca.1888-1939) as well!!!
The pics hardly do it justice!!! Must be seen in person to be fully appreciated!!!
Good luck and be sure to check out my other exciting mineral auctions on ebay!!! STAY TUNED!!! MORE AUCTIONS WILL BE ADDED MONDAY NIGHT FOR A SPECIAL 3-DAY AUCTION, ENDING THURSDAY JULY 12th!!!
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