Mangano-mangani-ungarettiite is an extremely rare member of the amphibole group defined by its specific manganese-rich chemistry. It typically occurs as small prismatic crystals within metamorphosed manganese deposits, most notably in the Italian Ligurian region.
Is this mangano-mangani-ungarettiite?
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 mangano-mangani-ungarettiite with a known reference. Mangano-mangani-ungarettiite 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. Mangano-mangani-ungarettiite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Mangano-mangani-ungarettiite 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.
Often found alongside mangano-mangani-ungarettiite
Minerals reported to co-occur with mangano-mangani-ungarettiite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- NaNa₂(Mn²⁺₂Mn³⁺₃)Si₈O₂₂O₂
- Mohs hardness
- 6
- Density
- 3.52 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic
- Cleavage
- Perfect On {110}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Manganese Deposits in Metamorphic Rocks
- Typical price
- n/a
Where rockhounds find mangano-mangani-ungarettiite
Classic worldwide localities
- Val Graveglia, Liguria, Italy
Field-hunting tip
Look in manganese deposits in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where mangano-mangani-ungarettiite typically forms. If you start seeing braunite, quartz, rhodochrosite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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