Once known simply as the mineral species, Betafite, now in a complex mineral group called the Betafite group, which belongs to the super group of Pyrochlores with a complicated nomenclature. Compositionally, Betafites are oxides of titanium and niobium with variable subtitutions of cations uranium and calcium in the A position and variable amounts of anions O, OH, H2O, or F in the Z position.
This specimen, like the others show the cubic and octahedral forms with sharp edges.
Radioactive!!
Betafite
Formula
(Ca,U)2(Ti,Nb,Ta)2O6(OH)
Crystal System
Isometric
Crystal Habit
Encrustations, Massive - Granular
Cleavage
None, None, None
Luster
Vitreous - Greasy
Color
brown, black, brownish green, yellow, greenish black