Kanonaite is a rare manganese-rich member of the andalusite group, typically found in manganese-rich metamorphic environments. It is often distinguished from common andalusite by its darker, greener to blackish coloration and slightly higher density. Collectors mainly look for it in specialized localities where high-grade metamorphic processes have concentrated manganese.
Is this kanonaite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch kanonaite with a known reference. Kanonaite sits at Mohs 6.5-7.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Kanonaite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Kanonaite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: dark green, brownish green, black.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals, massive, granular.
Often confused with
Kanonaite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside kanonaite
Minerals reported to co-occur with kanonaite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (Mn³⁺,Al)₂SiO₅
- Mohs hardness
- 6.5-7.5
- Density
- 3.3-3.4 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals, Massive, Granular
- Cleavage
- Good On {110}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Manganese-rich Metamorphic Rocks
- Typical price
- $20-150 for small specimens
Where rockhounds find kanonaite
Classic worldwide localities
- Salmchâteau, Belgium
- Otjosondu, Namibia
- Odenwald, Germany
Field-hunting tip
Look in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where kanonaite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, spessartine, hematite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals, massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find kanonaite on the map
RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.
