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W. Chirnside

Publications and source records attributed to W. Chirnside.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

A new U-Ti-Ca-HREE hydrated oxide and associated niobian rutile from Topaz Valley, Utah

In October of 1988, specimens of yellow and/or white acicular needles growing out of equant to platy hematite were collected from the east side of Topaz Valley. For the past five years, attempts have been made by all of the authors to completely characterize what is believed to be a new mineral species. Because of several major factors the space group, exact formula, and structure are still unknown. The potentially new mineral and some associated minerals are described here with the hope that elsewhere in the world better and more material exists that will allow complete characterization. -from Authors

Mineralogical Record↗

Pink topaz from the Thomas Range, Juab County, Utah

The Thomas Range is world-famous for its production of topaz Al2SiO4(F,OH)2, occurring in lithophysal cavities in rhyolite. Topaz Valley, at the southern end of the range, is perhaps the single most famous locality. While fine-quality, sherry-orange crystals to 5 cm or more in length occur at various localities, pale to medium pink crystals were first reported from the Thomas Range in 1934. The cause of the unusual coloration, unknown for 60 years, is now believed to be substitution of Mn3+ ?? Fe3+ for Al3+. -Authors

Mineralogical Record↗