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samarskite

samarskite

9.9
A black mineral found in hard rocks that contains iron, uranium, and rare metals
  • noun
  • /səˈmɑrˌskaɪt/
  • Specialized
: samarsquita
  • The geologist discovered a rare sample of samarskite in the granite pegmatite.

Examples

  • Samarskite is an important source of several rare earth elements.

  • Researchers discovered a new deposit of samarskite in Madagascar.

  • Collectors value samarskite for its distinctive black coloration and complex composition.

  • The samarskite sample showed unique crystal formations.

  • The geologist discovered a rare sample of samarskite in the granite pegmatite.

  • Collectors value samarskite for its distinctive black coloration and complex composition.

  • Samarskite is an important source of several rare earth elements.

Surface Forms

samarskite singular
samarskites plural

Etymology

The word samarskite is named after a Russian mine official, Samarsky, who helped bring the first samples to scientists, so you can think of it as 'Samarsky's rock'. Because it contains several rare earth elements, the mineral's name even gave its name to the element samarium, which helps you remember that samarskite is a source of rare earths.