REE Mineralization, Elk Creek Carbonatite SEM Image
By Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
November 2015 (approx.)
Detailed Description
Two examples of late-stage, ore-grade rare earth element (REE) mineralization, Elk Creek carbonatite, NE. Secondary electron microscope (SEM) backscatter images displaying (A) fine-grained, intergrown lathes of parisite and synchysite filling a void in dolomitic carbonatite, and (B) fine-grained crystals of monazite filling a void in dolomitic carbonatite. Ln in mineral formula designates lanthanide elements (REEs). Images from the USGS Denver Microbeam Laboratory.
Sources/Usage
Public Domain.