General Information:
Chemical Formula:
(Mn++++1-x)(Mn++x)(O2-2x)(OH2x) where x = 0.06-0.07
Composition:
(Molecular Weight = 87.24 gm)
Manganese 62.97 % Mn
Hydrogen 0.35 % H
Oxygen 36.68 % O
Empirical Formula:
Mn4+0.85O1.7Mn2+0.15OH0.3
Environment:
Oxidation of manganese carbonate minerals. Found in most major manganese deposits.
IMA Status:
Approved IMA 1962
Locality:
Nsuta, Ghana.
Name Origin:
Named for the locality.
Physical Properties:
Color:
grayish black, dark gray, or black.
Density:
4.24 - 4.67, Average = 4.45
Diaphaniety:
Opaque
Habits:
Massive - Uniformly indistinguishable crystals forming large masses., Earthy - Dull, clay-like texture with no visible crystalline affinities, (e.g. howlite).,
Hardness:
6.5-8.5
Luster:
Earthy (Dull)
Streak:
black
More details...