In this case, the conversion is not so dramatic since it involves only the lose of a few water molecules and therefore a good pseudomorph is likely. The conversion is irreversible and ongoing and all collection specimens of a certain age are almost certainly partially to totally converted. The presence of torbernite crystal has been used by prospectors as an indicator of profitable uranium ore in the area. Fine torbernite specimens should be stored in a closed container to avoid water loss. Remember, this is a radioactive mineral and should be stored away from other minerals that are affected by radioactivity and human exposure should be limited.
Colors are various shades of dark to light green.
Luster is vitreous to pearly on the main pinacoid. Transparency crystals can be transparent but more commonly are translucent to opaque. Crystal Habits include tabular square crystals dominated by two pinacoid faces. Crystals can look cubic, but the pearly luster only on the pinacoid faces gives the true symmetry away. Also as crusts, micaceous, foliated and scaly aggregates.