Sources/Uses
Used in metal alloys, in polishing agents, and in glass; [Ullmann] Sources: most abundant of the "rare earth" metals, it is obtained mainly from monazite, and bastnasite mineral deposits. Large deposits are found in India, Brazil, and the United States. Uses: to manufacture flints for cigarette lighters (misch metal); to make incandescent gas mantles, self-cleaning ovens, carbon arc lighting, and glass; as an analytical reagent (Cerium sulfate); to polish glass (Cerium oxide); and as a catalyst in petroleum refining; [Reference #1]