Organovaite-Mn is a rare member of the labuntsovite group typically found as small, distinct prismatic crystals. It is primarily identified within the hyper-alkaline environments of the Khibiny and Lovozero massifs in Russia. Collectors prize it for its specific manganese content which gives it a distinct coloration compared to other group members.
Is this organovaite-mn?
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 organovaite-mn with a known reference. Organovaite-Mn sits at Mohs 5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Organovaite-Mn leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Organovaite-Mn typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, pink, orange.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.
Often confused with
Organovaite-Mn vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside organovaite-mn
Minerals reported to co-occur with organovaite-mn. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂Mn(Ti,Nb)₄(Si₄O₁₂)₂(O,OH)₄·5H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 5
- Density
- 2.85 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals
- Cleavage
- Poor
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find organovaite-mn
Classic worldwide localities
- Khibiny Massif, Russia
- Lovozero Massif, Russia
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where organovaite-mn typically forms. If you start seeing aegirine, microcline, nepheline 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 organovaite-mn?+
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Find organovaite-mn on the map
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