Schernikite
About Schernikite
Unique Identifiers
2815 (as Muscovite)
mindat:1:1:2815:4 (as Muscovite)
IMA Classification of Schernikite
Physical Properties of Schernikite
Perfect on {001} perpendicular to the fibers. Cleavage surface of a parallel bundle will show myriad, tiny, rhombic cross-sections at 60 and 120-degrees, from the individual parallel fibers. Produces a "tessellated" appearance.
Chemistry of Schernikite
First Recorded Occurrence of Schernikite
Other Language Names for Schernikite
Sernikit
Common Associates
| 53 photos of Schernikite associated with Elbaite | Na(Li1.5Al1.5)Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)3(OH) |
| 34 photos of Schernikite associated with Quartz | SiO2 |
| 28 photos of Schernikite associated with Cookeite | (LiAl4◻)[AlSi3O10](OH)8 |
| 25 photos of Schernikite associated with Cleavelandite | Na(AlSi3O8) |
| 18 photos of Schernikite associated with Lepidolite | |
| 18 photos of Schernikite associated with Albite | Na(AlSi3O8) |
| 16 photos of Schernikite associated with Muscovite | KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2 |
| 10 photos of Schernikite associated with Fluorapatite | Ca5(PO4)3F |
| 5 photos of Schernikite associated with Beryl | Be3Al2(Si6O18) |
| 5 photos of Schernikite associated with Smoky Quartz | SiO2 |
Radioactivity
| Element | % Content | Activity (Bq/kg) | Radiation Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uranium (U) | 0.0000% | 0 | α, β, γ |
| Thorium (Th) | 0.0000% | 0 | α, β, γ |
| Potassium (K) | 9.8161% | 3,043 | β, γ |
For comparison:
- Banana: ~15 Bq per fruit
- Granite: 1,000–3,000 Bq/kg
- EU exemption limit: 10,000 Bq/kg
Note: Risk is shown relative to daily recommended maximum exposure to non-background radiation of 1000 µSv/year. Note that natural background radiation averages around 2400 µSv/year so in reality these risks are probably extremely overstated! With infrequent handling and safe storage natural radioactive minerals do not usually pose much risk.
Note: The mass selector refers to the mass of radioactive mineral present, not the full specimen, also be aware that the matrix may also be radioactive, possibly more radioactive than this mineral!
Activity: –
| Distance | Dose rate | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cm | ||
| 10 cm | ||
| 1 m |
The external dose rate (D) from a radioactive mineral is estimated by summing the gamma radiation contributions from its Uranium, Thorium, and Potassium content, disregarding daughter-product which may have a significant effect in some cases (eg 'pitchblende'). This involves multiplying the activity (A, in Bq) of each element by its specific gamma ray constant (Γ), which accounts for its unique gamma emissions. The total unshielded dose at 1 cm is then scaled by the square of the distance (r, in cm) and multiplied by a shielding factor (μshield). This calculation provides a 'worst-case' or 'maximum risk' estimate because it assumes the sample is a point source and entirely neglects any self-shielding where radiation is absorbed within the mineral itself, meaning actual doses will typically be lower. The resulting dose rate (D) is expressed in microsieverts per hour (μSv/h).
D = ((AU × ΓU) + (ATh × ΓTh) + (AK × ΓK)) / r2 × μshield
Other Information
Internet Links for Schernikite
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References for Schernikite
Localities for Schernikite
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The Locality List
- This locality has map coordinates listed.
- This locality has estimated coordinates.
ⓘ - Click for references and further information on this occurrence.
? - Indicates mineral may be doubtful at this locality.
- Good crystals or important locality for species.
- World class for species or very significant.
(TL) - Type Locality for a valid mineral species.
(FRL) - First Recorded Locality for everything else (eg varieties).
All localities listed without proper references should be considered as questionable.
USA (FRL) | |
| Bowman (1902) +2 other references |
| Adam Berlutti collection | |
| Moritz (n.d.) |
| Moritz (n.d.) |
| Cliff Trebilcock collection |
| Moritz (n.d.) |
| Cliff Trebilcock collection +1 other reference |
Fisher Quarry, Topsham, Sagadahoc County, Maine, USA