Hydroxymanganopyrochlore is a rare member of the pyrochlore group, typically found as small, dark octahedral crystals within alkaline pegmatite complexes. Due to its radioactive nature and scarcity, it is sought primarily by advanced mineral collectors focusing on complex niobate species.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Resinous

Streak

Yellowish-white

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrarePyrochlore Group family

Hydroxymanganopyrochlore

Hardness: 5-5.5
Luster: Resinous
Streak: Yellowish-white
Transparency: Translucent

Is this hydroxymanganopyrochlore?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch hydroxymanganopyrochlore with a known reference. Hydroxymanganopyrochlore sits at Mohs 5-5.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydroxymanganopyrochlore leaves a yellowish-white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxymanganopyrochlore typically shows a resinous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: brown, yellowish-brown, reddish-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral.

Often found alongside hydroxymanganopyrochlore

Minerals reported to co-occur with hydroxymanganopyrochlore. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: (Mn,Ca,◻)₂(Nb,Ti)₂O₆(OH,F)
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 4.5-5.0 g/cm³
Colors: Brown Yellowish-brown Reddish-brown
Streak: Yellowish-white
Luster: Resinous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Octahedral
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find hydroxymanganopyrochlore

Classic worldwide localities

Ilmen Mountains, Russia
Kola Peninsula, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where hydroxymanganopyrochlore typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, zircon in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a octahedral habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify hydroxymanganopyrochlore?+

Mohs hardness is 5-5.5. It typically shows a resinous luster. The streak is yellowish-white. Common colors include brown, yellowish-brown, reddish-brown.

Where is hydroxymanganopyrochlore found?+

Notable localities include Ilmen Mountains, Russia; Kola Peninsula, Russia.

How much is hydroxymanganopyrochlore worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is hydroxymanganopyrochlore safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Contains radioactive elements and potential heavy metals. Handle with care, avoid dust inhalation, and store in a shielded container. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with hydroxymanganopyrochlore?+

Hydroxymanganopyrochlore commonly co-occurs with Aegirine, Microcline, Zircon, Fluorite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does hydroxymanganopyrochlore form in?+

Hydroxymanganopyrochlore typically forms in alkaline pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is hydroxymanganopyrochlore used for?+

Hydroxymanganopyrochlore is used in collector.

Find hydroxymanganopyrochlore on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.