monazite

[Greek monazō -to be solitary; suff. -ite ( Min.).] Min.: A rare mineral, occurring only in isolated crystals. Crystallization, monoclinic. Hardne , 5-5.5; specific gravity, 4-9-5-26; luster, somewhat resinous; color, various shades of brown to brownish-yellow; transparent to opaque; brittle. Composition: A phosphate of cerium and lanthanum; with sometimes thorium and didymium. Occurs in the Ilmen Mountains, Orenburg, in granite; and at various localities in the United States. Also in some gold washings. sin, as; expect, Xenophon, exist. ph = f. monazitoid