Proto-ferro-suenoite is a rare member of the amphibole supergroup that was formally defined based on specific cation arrangements in the crystal lattice. It typically occurs as small prismatic crystals in high-grade metamorphic environments, often associated with manganese-rich mineral suites.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareAmphibole Supergroup family

Proto-ferro-suenoite

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

Is this proto-ferro-suenoite?

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 proto-ferro-suenoite with a known reference. Proto-ferro-suenoite 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. Proto-ferro-suenoite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Proto-ferro-suenoite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: brownish-yellow, pale brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Proto-ferro-suenoite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Proto-ferro-suenoite and vitreous to silky on Actinolite.

Often found alongside proto-ferro-suenoite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: □Mn₂Mg₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 3.35-3.45 g/cm³
Colors: Brownish-yellow Pale Brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect On {110}
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find proto-ferro-suenoite

Classic worldwide localities

Kyauk-Pyat-That, Mogok, Myanmar

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where proto-ferro-suenoite typically forms. If you start seeing spessartine, rhodonite, calcite 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 proto-ferro-suenoite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-6. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include brownish-yellow, pale brown.

Where is proto-ferro-suenoite found?+

Notable localities include Kyauk-Pyat-That, Mogok, Myanmar.

How much is proto-ferro-suenoite 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 proto-ferro-suenoite?+

Proto-ferro-suenoite is most often confused with Tremolite, Actinolite, Cummingtonite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with proto-ferro-suenoite?+

Proto-ferro-suenoite commonly co-occurs with spessartine, rhodonite, calcite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does proto-ferro-suenoite form in?+

Proto-ferro-suenoite typically forms in metamorphic rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is proto-ferro-suenoite used for?+

Proto-ferro-suenoite is used in collector.

Find proto-ferro-suenoite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.