Manganokaskasite is a rare manganese-dominant member of the kaskasite group found in alkaline igneous environments. It typically forms thin, brittle, platy crystals with a distinct pearly luster that are highly prized by systematic mineral collectors.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Pearly

Streak

Brownish Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareKaskasite family

Manganokaskasite

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Pearly
Streak: Brownish Black
Transparency: Opaque

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Is this manganokaskasite?

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

Often confused with

Manganokaskasite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Manganokaskasite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3-4 vs. 2); streak differs, so Manganokaskasite leaves brownish black, Kaskasite leaves white.

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Often found alongside manganokaskasite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: (Mn²⁺,Mg,Fe²⁺)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(OH)₂·nH₂O
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 3.2-3.4 g/cm³
Colors: Black Dark Brown
Streak: Brownish Black
Luster: Pearly
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Platy Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect Basal
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Igneous Rocks
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find manganokaskasite

Classic worldwide localities

Kola Peninsula, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline igneous rocks country, the host setting where manganokaskasite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, feldspar, aegirine in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify manganokaskasite?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a pearly luster. The streak is brownish black. Common colors include black, dark brown.

Where is manganokaskasite found?+

Notable localities include Kola Peninsula, Russia.

How much is manganokaskasite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like manganokaskasite?+

Manganokaskasite is most often confused with Kaskasite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with manganokaskasite?+

Manganokaskasite commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Feldspar, Aegirine. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does manganokaskasite form in?+

Manganokaskasite typically forms in alkaline igneous rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is manganokaskasite used for?+

Manganokaskasite is used in collector.

Find manganokaskasite on the map

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