Mangani-obertiite is a rare, manganese-rich member of the amphibole supergroup typically found in metamorphic environments. It is most easily distinguished from common amphiboles through micro-analytical techniques rather than visual inspection. Collectors value it primarily for its extreme rarity and complex mineralogical status.
Is this mangani-obertiite?
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-obertiite with a known reference. Mangani-obertiite sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Mangani-obertiite leaves a pale brown streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Mangani-obertiite 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-obertiite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside mangani-obertiite
Minerals reported to co-occur with mangani-obertiite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na(Na₂)(Mg₃Mn₂⁺Si₈)O₂₂F₂
- Mohs hardness
- 5-6
- Density
- 3.35 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- Pale Brown
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals
- Cleavage
- Perfect in Two Directions
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Metamorphic Rocks
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find mangani-obertiite
Classic worldwide localities
- Wanni glacier, Valais, Switzerland
Field-hunting tip
Look in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where mangani-obertiite typically forms. If you start seeing albite, quartz, titanite 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
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Find mangani-obertiite on the map
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