Mangani-pargasite is a rare member of the amphibole supergroup characterized by significant manganese substitution. It typically occurs as dark prismatic crystals within metamorphosed carbonate rocks and is primarily sought after by advanced collectors of manganese-rich mineral suites.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareAmphibole Supergroup family

Mangani-pargasite

Hardness: 5-6
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this mangani-pargasite?

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 mangani-pargasite with a known reference. Mangani-pargasite sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Mangani-pargasite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Mangani-pargasite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: dark green, black, brownish-black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Mangani-pargasite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside mangani-pargasite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: NaCa₂ (Mg₄Mn) (Al₂Si₆O₂₂) (OH)₂
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 3.2-3.4 g/cm³
Colors: Dark Green Black Brownish-black
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect in Two Directions
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphosed Limestone
Typical price: $20-200 per specimen

Where rockhounds find mangani-pargasite

Classic worldwide localities

Långban, Sweden
Franklin, New Jersey, USA

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphosed limestone country — that is the host setting where mangani-pargasite typically forms. If you start seeing calcite, dolomite, willemite 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-pargasite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-6. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include dark green, black, brownish-black.

Where is mangani-pargasite found?+

Notable localities include Långban, Sweden; Franklin, New Jersey, USA.

How much is mangani-pargasite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $20-200 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like mangani-pargasite?+

Mangani-pargasite is most often confused with Pargasite, Magnesio-hornblende, Tremolite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with mangani-pargasite?+

Mangani-pargasite commonly co-occurs with Calcite, Dolomite, Willemite, Franklinite, Diopside. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does mangani-pargasite form in?+

Mangani-pargasite typically forms in metamorphosed limestone. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is mangani-pargasite used for?+

Mangani-pargasite is used in collector.

Find mangani-pargasite on the map

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