Udanej

Udanej is a rare and unique mineral discovered in the late 20th century. It is named after the Udachnaya mine in Siberia, Russia, where it was first found. Udanej is a complex oxide mineral with the chemical formula (Y,Ca,Ce,U,Th)(Nb,Ta,Ti)2O6. It is typically found in granitic pegmatites and is associated with other rare minerals such as fersmite and samarskite.

Udanej is characterized by its distinctive yellow to brown color and its high density, which is around 5.5 g/cm³. It has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. The mineral is radioactive due to the presence of uranium and thorium, which contributes to its yellowish hue.

Due to its rarity and unique composition, udanej is of significant interest to mineralogists and collectors. However, its radioactive nature makes it hazardous to handle without proper protective equipment. The mineral has been studied for its potential use in the production of high-density ceramics and as a source of rare earth elements.

In summary, udanej is a rare and distinctive mineral with a complex composition and radioactive properties. Its discovery and study have contributed to the understanding of rare minerals and their potential applications.