Mangani-dellaventuraite is an extremely rare amphibole group mineral typically identified by its dark, manganese-rich composition. It is predominantly found in metamorphosed manganese deposits, specifically in association with braunite and quartz. Collectors usually seek specimens from the type locality in Italy, where it occurs as small, distinct prismatic crystals.
Is this mangani-dellaventuraite?
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 mangani-dellaventuraite with a known reference. Mangani-dellaventuraite sits at Mohs 6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Mangani-dellaventuraite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Mangani-dellaventuraite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: dark brown, reddish-brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.
Often confused with
Mangani-dellaventuraite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside mangani-dellaventuraite
Minerals reported to co-occur with mangani-dellaventuraite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- NaNa₂(Mn⁴⁺₅)Si₈O₂₂(O)₂
- Mohs hardness
- 6
- Density
- 3.37 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals
- Cleavage
- Perfect {110}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Metamorphic Manganese-rich Cherts
- Typical price
- $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity
Where rockhounds find mangani-dellaventuraite
Classic worldwide localities
- Cerchiara Mine, Liguria, Italy
Field-hunting tip
Look in metamorphic manganese-rich cherts country — that is the host setting where mangani-dellaventuraite typically forms. If you start seeing braunite, quartz, hematite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify mangani-dellaventuraite?+
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