General Information:
Chemical Formula:
(Y,Fe+++,U)(Nb,Ta)5O4
IMA Status:
Approved IMA 1987
Name Origin:
The element samarium (Sm) was named after this mineral.
Physical Properties:
Cleavage:
[???] Imperfect
Color:
black, brownish, or yellowish brown.
Density:
5.6 - 5.8, Average = 5.69
Diaphaniety:
Opaque
Habits:
Massive - Uniformly indistinguishable crystals forming large masses., ,
Hardness:
5-6 - Between Apatite and Orthoclase
Luminescence:
Non-fluorescent.
Luster:
Vitreous - Resinous
Streak:
reddish brown
More details...