URANIUM
I had some of this for a day - and what a day!!! It was with a collection of small specimens of industrial minerals. I nearly freaked when I saw it!! I put it in a tin and despatched that out the back!! There followed a day and a bit of correspondence on Forum on Bob's Rock Shop (recommended highly - not just for the forum - although that is undoubtedly EXCELLENT!!!) Of course, I wanted to know the dangers of the radioactivity. I was given plenty of excellent answers, mainly telling me that it was OK as long as I didn't sleep with it under my pillow, or wear it as jewellery (sure!!). I would like to put a couple of their answers onto this page - because they are interesting - and would be of benefit to others in a similar dilemma - notwithstanding the information they concern. I am waiting to gain the writers' permission before proceeding with that. However, here is what it says on the safe handling of radioactive materials on Atomic Rock
Radiation Safety
Radioactive minerals emit various forms of radiation. If proper safeguards and precautions are followed, the dangers from radiation are minimized and even amateur collectors can collect without worry.
Some guidelines for radioactive minerals:
Handle specimens as little as possible; if they are touched, wash hands with soap and water.
I gotta tell you, I was not a relaxed bunny - and, despite the assurances of the guys on the Rock forum - I threw it out! OK - so beat me!! It was ugly anyway - I never asked for it - and if I can't love my rocks, I don't want them. You can't love a rock you can't touch!
Anyway, this specimen was not "actual" uranium, but uranium ore, Uraninite I would imagine. (UO2)
Hardness: 5-6 Other characteristics
I wouldn't particularly recommend it. More to follow . . .
General Safe Handling Considerations
Never store specimens, even the smallest of size, in an inhabited room.
Store specimens in a well ventilated area.
Keep all specimens out of children’s reach.
Never eat, drink, smoke, or sleep near a radioactive mineral.
Label all radioactive specimens as radioactive.
Don't carry radioactive minerals in your pocket or wear them as jewelry.
Try to keep radioactive minerals in a plastic display case or some other container with a lid. This helps to control small pieces that may break off during handling. A boxed radioactive mineral keeps you from directly touching the specimen, which helps to minimize radiation exposure to your skin.
Clean up small particles that may break off of radioactive specimens with soap and water.
If you collect lots of large highly radioactive specimens, then I would consider a lead, lead glass or concrete shielded box for storage, in a well ventilated area.