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Danielle A Olinger

Danielle Olinger is a geologist with the Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center.

Danielle is interested in igneous petrology and trace element geochemistry as it relates to understanding ore deposits. Her primary research focuses on characterizing the the formation of critical mineral deposits hosted in carbonatite-alkaline silicate complexes. Danielle is also researching the formation of lead-zinc deposits in the Colorado Mineral Belt. Danielle uses a variety of analytical methods including: optical petrography, fluid inclusion microthermometry, RAMAN spectroscopy, laser ablation ICP-MS, micro XRF, whole-rock geochemistry, in-situ isotopic analysis, and microbeam analysis (SEM, EPMA). 

Danielle is also dedicated to educational outreach and leads a task developing educational products for K-12 audiences (and beyond) that effectively communicate how geosciences and mineral resources impact our everyday lives.

Professional Experience

  • September 2018 - present, Geologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Lakewood, CO

  • September 2014 - September 2018, Physical Scientist, U.S. Geological Survey, Lakewood, CO

  • September 2010 - May 2014, Teaching/Research Assistant, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX

  • August 2009 - December 2011, Consulting Geologist, Rare Element Resources, Ltd., Sundance, WY

Education and Certifications

  • M.S. Geology, Texas Tech University, 2012

  • B.S. Geology, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 2009

Affiliations and Memberships*

  • Society for Geology Applied to Mineral Deposits (SGA)

  • Geological Society of America

  • Volunteer Education Coordinator for Mines Museum of Earth Science

Abstracts and Presentations

  • Lowers, H., Olinger, D., and Adams, D., 2019, Barite Cathodoluminescence as a Potential Indicator of Undiscovered Ore Deposits, Microscopy and Microanalysis, vol. 25 (s2), https://doi.org/10.1017/S1431927619002034.

  • Johnson, M. and Olinger, D.A., 2019, Data Management at GGGSC: Incorporating Scientific Records Management, U.S. Geological Survey Community for Data Integration 2019 Workshop Proceedings—From Big Data to Smart Data, https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr20201132.

  • Olinger, D.A., Andersen, A.K., and Bennett, M.M., 2020, Constraining the conditions of rare earth element mineralization in the Bear Lodge Alkaline complex, Wyoming: A fluid inclusion story, Goldschmidt Abstracts, https://doi.org/10.46427/gold2020.1991.

  • Mercer, C.M., Andersen, A.K., Olinger, D.A., Verplanck, P.L., Cosca, M.A., and Morgan, L.E., 2022, Timing of Silicate and Carbonatite Magmatism Forming the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex: New Insights from 40Ar/39Ar Geochronology, Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs, vol. 54, no. 5, doi:10.1130/abs/2022AM-381942.

  • Bennett, M.M., Andersen, A.A., Olinger, D.A., and Verplanck, P.L., 2024, Fate and transport of REE in carbonatite-related fluids from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, WY: Evidence from fluid inclusion studies, Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 56, No. 4, https:/doi.org/10.1130/abs/2024CD-399693.

  • Andersen, A.K., Olinger, D.A., and Bennett, M.M., 2025, The role of alkali bicarbonate-sulfate brines in the genesis of carbonatite REE resources at the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming. Society of Geology Applied to Ore Deposits, extended abstract.

  • Hayes, S.M., DeVera, C.A., Tomaszewski, E.J., Compton, S., Olinger, D.A., Herzberg, A.S., Hubbard, B.E., Parker, M., and Cooper, A., 2026, Making USGS Data Accessible to the Classroom and Beyond, Geological Society of America Abstract with Programs, vol. 58, no. 1.

  • Verplanck, P.L., Mercer, C.M., Morgan, L.E., Siegried, P., Andersen, A.K., and Olinger, D.A., 2026, Cryptomelane Geochronology Constraints on Laterization and Mineralization of Carbonatite-derived Deposits. International Association on the Genesis of Ore Deposits (IAGOD) 16th Quadrennial Symposium.

  • Lowers H., Olinger D., Marsh E., Bennett M., Graham G., 2026, Cathodoluminescence in critical minerals research. Seventeenth Symposium of the Australian Microbeam Analysis Society, Melbourne.

Science and Products

Critical minerals memory match game Critical minerals memory match game

An educational information packet about the 2025 List of Critical Minerals, which includes a memory match game about select critical minerals and how they are used.
Authors
Danielle A. Olinger
By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Office of Science Quality and Integrity

Rare earth element-mineralized carbonatite in the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, USA—Ore genesis implications from fluid inclusion characterization Rare earth element-mineralized carbonatite in the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, USA—Ore genesis implications from fluid inclusion characterization

Rare earth element (REE) resources of the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming, are hosted in variably leached carbonatite spatially related to diatreme breccia pipes. We investigated the genesis of REE and lesser-known gold resources through fluid inclusion analysis of carbonatite, fluorite breccia, and smoky quartz vein samples. Physicochemical characteristics of inclusion-trapped...
Authors
Allen K. Andersen, Danielle A. Olinger, Mitchell M. Bennett
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

The role of alkali bicarbonate-sulfate brines in the genesis of carbonatite REE resources at the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming The role of alkali bicarbonate-sulfate brines in the genesis of carbonatite REE resources at the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming

Rare-earth element (REE) resources in the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming, are hosted in a variably leached carbonatite dike swarm spatially related to bodies of diatreme breccia. This study examines fluid inclusions in carbonatite dikes, peripheral fluorite breccias, and smoky quartz veins to reconstruct the physiochemical conditions of REE mineralization. Results reveal a multi...
Authors
Allen K. Andersen, Danielle A. Olinger, Mitchell M. Bennett
By
Energy Resources Program, Central Energy Resources Science Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
Close up of Bastnaesite

Controls on Critical Element Enrichment in Carbonatite-Alkaline Igneous Complexes

The project seeks to determine the processes responsible for critical element enrichment in carbonatites and to enhance our ability to identify and assess economic deposits. This project will work at various scales to meet this objective and will primarily focus on deposits within the US or our USGS collaborative Nations.
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
Controls on Critical Element Enrichment in Carbonatite-Alkaline Igneous Complexes

Controls on Critical Element Enrichment in Carbonatite-Alkaline Igneous Complexes

The project seeks to determine the processes responsible for critical element enrichment in carbonatites and to enhance our ability to identify and assess economic deposits. This project will work at various scales to meet this objective and will primarily focus on deposits within the US or our USGS collaborative Nations.
Learn More
Stacks of organized boxes containing trays of archived samples splits in the National Geochemical Sample Archive, Denver, CO.

Analytical Chemistry

The USGS Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to conduct their research. The Analytical Chemistry project facilitates the ability of USGS scientists to obtain needed analyses.
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Analytical Chemistry

Analytical Chemistry

The USGS Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to conduct their research. The Analytical Chemistry project facilitates the ability of USGS scientists to obtain needed analyses.
Learn More
SEM image of carbonatite

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
Learn More

Whole-Rock Geochemistry of Samples from the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming: Data Supporting Petrogenetic and Mineral Resource Studies Whole-Rock Geochemistry of Samples from the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming: Data Supporting Petrogenetic and Mineral Resource Studies

Geochemical data include major, minor and trace element results for alkaline silicate igneous rock samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex. Samples were collected during field work from natural exposures/outcrops and drill core. Samples were analyzed by the GeoAnalytical Lab at Washington State University and U.S. Geological Survey contract laboratories, AGAT Labs and SGS Labs...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Fluid inclusion data for fluorite, smoky quartz, and calcite samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming Fluid inclusion data for fluorite, smoky quartz, and calcite samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming

This data release is a collection of quantitative and qualitative data for fluid inclusions in samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming. The dataset includes:microthermometry, Raman spectroscopy, noble gas spectroscopy, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and energy dispersive X-ray analyses of fluid inclusions. For spatial context and...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Raman spectra, electron probe microanalysis results, and images for burbankite from the Rocky Boy stock, Bears Paw Mountains, Montana Raman spectra, electron probe microanalysis results, and images for burbankite from the Rocky Boy stock, Bears Paw Mountains, Montana

This U.S. Geological Survey data release is a collection of Raman spectra, electron probe microanalytical results, and images for burbankite [(Na,Ca)3(Sr,Ba,Ce)3(CO3)5] from the type locality at the Rocky Boy stock, Bears Paw Mountains, Montana. Burbankite was described by Pecora and Kerr (1953) for the first time from samples collected in the Bears Paw Mountains (in their publication...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

In situ geochemical data for clinopyroxene in igneous rocks of the Bear Lodge and Mineral Hill alkaline complexes, Wyoming In situ geochemical data for clinopyroxene in igneous rocks of the Bear Lodge and Mineral Hill alkaline complexes, Wyoming

Major, minor, and trace element data, as well as backscattered electron images, were collected for clinopyroxene crystals in alkaline silicate rocks (phonolite, tephriphonolite, latite, phonotephrite, and pyroxenite) of the Bear Lodge and Mineral Hill alkaline complexes, Wyoming. Samples of alkaline rocks thought to represent early and later stages of magmatism, based on observed...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Geochemical analyses of rock samples collected from the Judith Mountains and Crazy Mountains alkalic complexes, Montana Geochemical analyses of rock samples collected from the Judith Mountains and Crazy Mountains alkalic complexes, Montana

Geochemical data include major, minor and trace element results for 42 alkaline silicate igneous rock samples. Samples were collected from natural exposures/outcrops during field work in the Central Montana Alkaline Province (CMAP) during the summer of 2022. All samples were analyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey contract laboratory, SGS Labs. Major, minor, and trace elements were...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah

Beginning in November of 2015, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) undertook a project to reanalyze approximately 60,000 archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) project from selected areas in Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. A small amount...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Lithogeochemistry and images of selected drill core samples from the Mineral Hill alkaline complex, Wyoming Lithogeochemistry and images of selected drill core samples from the Mineral Hill alkaline complex, Wyoming

This data release contains analytical data and images for a suite of drill core samples from the Mineral Hill alkaline complex (MHAC), northeastern Wyoming. Geochemistry data include major and trace element analytical results for 103 alkaline igneous rock samples. Images include hand sample photographs of halved core and full thin section images captured in transmitted, plane-polarized...
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Alaska Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Alaska

Selected archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) program, were reanalyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as part of a NURE-HSSR Reanalysis project (Smith and others, 2018). A small amount (approximately 0.25 grams [g]) of sieved less than 75-micron sample material was...
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Carbonatite whole-rock and calcite geochemistry from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming and Mountain Pass mine, California Carbonatite whole-rock and calcite geochemistry from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming and Mountain Pass mine, California

Whole-rock and calcite geochemical data are reported for twelve carbonatite samples collected from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming and from the Mountain Pass mine, California. Calcite geochemical data was collected using electron microprobe and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) analyses. Reported whole-rock data was measured by inductively...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Word scramble puzzle about the critical mineral tantalum.
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum
Word scramble puzzle about the critical mineral tantalum.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS Mineral Resources Program Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Word scramble puzzle about the critical mineral tantalum.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS Mineral Resources Program Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle for the critical mineral rhenium.
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium
Crossword puzzle for the critical mineral rhenium.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium.

Rhenium is listed as "critical mineral". Learn about where we get rhenium and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

 

More information

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle for the critical mineral rhenium.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium.

Rhenium is listed as "critical mineral". Learn about where we get rhenium and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

 

More information

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle about the critical mineral manganese.
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese
Crossword puzzle about the critical mineral manganese.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Manganese is listed as a "critical mineral". Learn about where we get manganese and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

More information:

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle about the critical mineral manganese.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Manganese is listed as a "critical mineral". Learn about where we get manganese and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

More information:

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring page for the critical mineral barite.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite
USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite
Coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

Barite, chemical formula BaSO4, is a critical mineral. Fun fact: barite is one of the heaviest minerals that isn't a metal.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

Barite, chemical formula BaSO4, is a critical mineral. Fun fact: barite is one of the heaviest minerals that isn't a metal.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet featuring cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite
USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite
Coloring sheet featuring cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

The mineral cassiterite, chemical formula SnO2, is the most important mineral source for the critical mineral tin. Fun facts: tin is one of the earliest metals used by humans! The chemical symbol for tin, Sn, comes from its Latin name, stannum.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet featuring cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

The mineral cassiterite, chemical formula SnO2, is the most important mineral source for the critical mineral tin. Fun facts: tin is one of the earliest metals used by humans! The chemical symbol for tin, Sn, comes from its Latin name, stannum.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet for galena and the critical mineral lead.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena
USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena
Coloring sheet for galena and the critical mineral lead.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the mineral galena and the critical mineral lead.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Coloring sheet for galena and the critical mineral lead.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the mineral galena and the critical mineral lead.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Color by number page about the critical mineral graphite
USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite
USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite
Color by number page about the critical mineral graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS Mineral Resources Program color by number for the critical mineral graphite.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Color by number page about the critical mineral graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS Mineral Resources Program color by number for the critical mineral graphite.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet for the mineral lepidolite and the use of lithium in rechargeable batteries.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite
USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite
Coloring sheet for the mineral lepidolite and the use of lithium in rechargeable batteries.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

Critical Minerals Coloring Sheet: lepidolite

The critical mineral lithium is sourced from lithium brines, spodumene (LiAlSi2O6), petalite (LiAlSi4O10), and lepidolite (a Li-rich mica). Fun fact: lithium is the lightest metal!

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Coloring sheet for the mineral lepidolite and the use of lithium in rechargeable batteries.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

Critical Minerals Coloring Sheet: lepidolite

The critical mineral lithium is sourced from lithium brines, spodumene (LiAlSi2O6), petalite (LiAlSi4O10), and lepidolite (a Li-rich mica). Fun fact: lithium is the lightest metal!

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Science and Products

Critical minerals memory match game Critical minerals memory match game

An educational information packet about the 2025 List of Critical Minerals, which includes a memory match game about select critical minerals and how they are used.
Authors
Danielle A. Olinger
By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Office of Science Quality and Integrity

Rare earth element-mineralized carbonatite in the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, USA—Ore genesis implications from fluid inclusion characterization Rare earth element-mineralized carbonatite in the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, USA—Ore genesis implications from fluid inclusion characterization

Rare earth element (REE) resources of the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming, are hosted in variably leached carbonatite spatially related to diatreme breccia pipes. We investigated the genesis of REE and lesser-known gold resources through fluid inclusion analysis of carbonatite, fluorite breccia, and smoky quartz vein samples. Physicochemical characteristics of inclusion-trapped...
Authors
Allen K. Andersen, Danielle A. Olinger, Mitchell M. Bennett
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

The role of alkali bicarbonate-sulfate brines in the genesis of carbonatite REE resources at the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming The role of alkali bicarbonate-sulfate brines in the genesis of carbonatite REE resources at the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming

Rare-earth element (REE) resources in the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming, are hosted in a variably leached carbonatite dike swarm spatially related to bodies of diatreme breccia. This study examines fluid inclusions in carbonatite dikes, peripheral fluorite breccias, and smoky quartz veins to reconstruct the physiochemical conditions of REE mineralization. Results reveal a multi...
Authors
Allen K. Andersen, Danielle A. Olinger, Mitchell M. Bennett
By
Energy Resources Program, Central Energy Resources Science Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
Close up of Bastnaesite

Controls on Critical Element Enrichment in Carbonatite-Alkaline Igneous Complexes

The project seeks to determine the processes responsible for critical element enrichment in carbonatites and to enhance our ability to identify and assess economic deposits. This project will work at various scales to meet this objective and will primarily focus on deposits within the US or our USGS collaborative Nations.
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
Controls on Critical Element Enrichment in Carbonatite-Alkaline Igneous Complexes

Controls on Critical Element Enrichment in Carbonatite-Alkaline Igneous Complexes

The project seeks to determine the processes responsible for critical element enrichment in carbonatites and to enhance our ability to identify and assess economic deposits. This project will work at various scales to meet this objective and will primarily focus on deposits within the US or our USGS collaborative Nations.
Learn More
Stacks of organized boxes containing trays of archived samples splits in the National Geochemical Sample Archive, Denver, CO.

Analytical Chemistry

The USGS Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to conduct their research. The Analytical Chemistry project facilitates the ability of USGS scientists to obtain needed analyses.
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Analytical Chemistry

Analytical Chemistry

The USGS Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to conduct their research. The Analytical Chemistry project facilitates the ability of USGS scientists to obtain needed analyses.
Learn More
SEM image of carbonatite

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
Learn More

Whole-Rock Geochemistry of Samples from the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming: Data Supporting Petrogenetic and Mineral Resource Studies Whole-Rock Geochemistry of Samples from the Bear Lodge Alkaline Complex, Wyoming: Data Supporting Petrogenetic and Mineral Resource Studies

Geochemical data include major, minor and trace element results for alkaline silicate igneous rock samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex. Samples were collected during field work from natural exposures/outcrops and drill core. Samples were analyzed by the GeoAnalytical Lab at Washington State University and U.S. Geological Survey contract laboratories, AGAT Labs and SGS Labs...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Fluid inclusion data for fluorite, smoky quartz, and calcite samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming Fluid inclusion data for fluorite, smoky quartz, and calcite samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming

This data release is a collection of quantitative and qualitative data for fluid inclusions in samples from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming. The dataset includes:microthermometry, Raman spectroscopy, noble gas spectroscopy, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and energy dispersive X-ray analyses of fluid inclusions. For spatial context and...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Raman spectra, electron probe microanalysis results, and images for burbankite from the Rocky Boy stock, Bears Paw Mountains, Montana Raman spectra, electron probe microanalysis results, and images for burbankite from the Rocky Boy stock, Bears Paw Mountains, Montana

This U.S. Geological Survey data release is a collection of Raman spectra, electron probe microanalytical results, and images for burbankite [(Na,Ca)3(Sr,Ba,Ce)3(CO3)5] from the type locality at the Rocky Boy stock, Bears Paw Mountains, Montana. Burbankite was described by Pecora and Kerr (1953) for the first time from samples collected in the Bears Paw Mountains (in their publication...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

In situ geochemical data for clinopyroxene in igneous rocks of the Bear Lodge and Mineral Hill alkaline complexes, Wyoming In situ geochemical data for clinopyroxene in igneous rocks of the Bear Lodge and Mineral Hill alkaline complexes, Wyoming

Major, minor, and trace element data, as well as backscattered electron images, were collected for clinopyroxene crystals in alkaline silicate rocks (phonolite, tephriphonolite, latite, phonotephrite, and pyroxenite) of the Bear Lodge and Mineral Hill alkaline complexes, Wyoming. Samples of alkaline rocks thought to represent early and later stages of magmatism, based on observed...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Geochemical analyses of rock samples collected from the Judith Mountains and Crazy Mountains alkalic complexes, Montana Geochemical analyses of rock samples collected from the Judith Mountains and Crazy Mountains alkalic complexes, Montana

Geochemical data include major, minor and trace element results for 42 alkaline silicate igneous rock samples. Samples were collected from natural exposures/outcrops during field work in the Central Montana Alkaline Province (CMAP) during the summer of 2022. All samples were analyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey contract laboratory, SGS Labs. Major, minor, and trace elements were...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah

Beginning in November of 2015, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) undertook a project to reanalyze approximately 60,000 archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) project from selected areas in Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. A small amount...
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Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Lithogeochemistry and images of selected drill core samples from the Mineral Hill alkaline complex, Wyoming Lithogeochemistry and images of selected drill core samples from the Mineral Hill alkaline complex, Wyoming

This data release contains analytical data and images for a suite of drill core samples from the Mineral Hill alkaline complex (MHAC), northeastern Wyoming. Geochemistry data include major and trace element analytical results for 103 alkaline igneous rock samples. Images include hand sample photographs of halved core and full thin section images captured in transmitted, plane-polarized...
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Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Alaska Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Alaska

Selected archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) program, were reanalyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as part of a NURE-HSSR Reanalysis project (Smith and others, 2018). A small amount (approximately 0.25 grams [g]) of sieved less than 75-micron sample material was...
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Carbonatite whole-rock and calcite geochemistry from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming and Mountain Pass mine, California Carbonatite whole-rock and calcite geochemistry from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming and Mountain Pass mine, California

Whole-rock and calcite geochemical data are reported for twelve carbonatite samples collected from the Bear Lodge alkaline complex, Wyoming and from the Mountain Pass mine, California. Calcite geochemical data was collected using electron microprobe and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) analyses. Reported whole-rock data was measured by inductively...
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Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Word scramble puzzle about the critical mineral tantalum.
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum
Word scramble puzzle about the critical mineral tantalum.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS Mineral Resources Program Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Word scramble puzzle about the critical mineral tantalum.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

USGS Mineral Resources Program Critical Mineral Word Scramble Puzzle: Tantalum

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle for the critical mineral rhenium.
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium
Crossword puzzle for the critical mineral rhenium.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium.

Rhenium is listed as "critical mineral". Learn about where we get rhenium and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

 

More information

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle for the critical mineral rhenium.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Rhenium.

Rhenium is listed as "critical mineral". Learn about where we get rhenium and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

 

More information

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle about the critical mineral manganese.
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese
USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese
Crossword puzzle about the critical mineral manganese.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Manganese is listed as a "critical mineral". Learn about where we get manganese and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

More information:

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Crossword puzzle about the critical mineral manganese.

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

USGS MRP Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Critical Mineral Crossword Puzzle: Manganese

Manganese is listed as a "critical mineral". Learn about where we get manganese and how we use it by solving the crossword puzzle clues!

More information:

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring page for the critical mineral barite.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite
USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite
Coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

Barite, chemical formula BaSO4, is a critical mineral. Fun fact: barite is one of the heaviest minerals that isn't a metal.

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Barite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the critical mineral barite.

Barite, chemical formula BaSO4, is a critical mineral. Fun fact: barite is one of the heaviest minerals that isn't a metal.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet featuring cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite
USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite
Coloring sheet featuring cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

The mineral cassiterite, chemical formula SnO2, is the most important mineral source for the critical mineral tin. Fun facts: tin is one of the earliest metals used by humans! The chemical symbol for tin, Sn, comes from its Latin name, stannum.

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Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet featuring cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Cassiterite

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for cassiterite and the critical mineral tin.

The mineral cassiterite, chemical formula SnO2, is the most important mineral source for the critical mineral tin. Fun facts: tin is one of the earliest metals used by humans! The chemical symbol for tin, Sn, comes from its Latin name, stannum.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet for galena and the critical mineral lead.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena
USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena
Coloring sheet for galena and the critical mineral lead.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the mineral galena and the critical mineral lead.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Coloring sheet for galena and the critical mineral lead.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS MRP Coloring Page Galena

USGS Mineral Resources Program coloring page for the mineral galena and the critical mineral lead.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Color by number page about the critical mineral graphite
USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite
USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite
Color by number page about the critical mineral graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS Mineral Resources Program color by number for the critical mineral graphite.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Color by number page about the critical mineral graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS MRP Color by Number: Graphite

USGS Mineral Resources Program color by number for the critical mineral graphite.

By
Geology, Energy, and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Educational Resources
Coloring sheet for the mineral lepidolite and the use of lithium in rechargeable batteries.
USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite
USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite
Coloring sheet for the mineral lepidolite and the use of lithium in rechargeable batteries.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

Critical Minerals Coloring Sheet: lepidolite

The critical mineral lithium is sourced from lithium brines, spodumene (LiAlSi2O6), petalite (LiAlSi4O10), and lepidolite (a Li-rich mica). Fun fact: lithium is the lightest metal!

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Coloring sheet for the mineral lepidolite and the use of lithium in rechargeable batteries.

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

USGS MRP Coloring Page Lepidolite

Critical Minerals Coloring Sheet: lepidolite

The critical mineral lithium is sourced from lithium brines, spodumene (LiAlSi2O6), petalite (LiAlSi4O10), and lepidolite (a Li-rich mica). Fun fact: lithium is the lightest metal!

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government

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