How do I identify Pyrolusite?

Pyrolusite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Black color, Metallic, Dull luster, Tetragonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Pyrolusite?

Pyrolusite typically appears in Black, very dark grey. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Pyrolusite?

Pyrolusite has a hardness of 2 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

Pyrolusite

A variety of Rutile Group

Rare

Pyrolusite specimen - rock identification

What is Pyrolusite?

Pyrolusite is incredibly rich in manganese and is the most readily used mineral from which to obtain it. Manganese has a wide range of industrial uses, ranging from creating massive steel beams to dying fabric. Pyrolusite is found worldwide, commonly in huge masses called wads, which are almost coal-like in appearance.

Etymology & Origins

The ancient Greeks had a term μάγνης or Μάγνης λίθος ("Magnes lithos") meaning stone of the area called Μαγνησία (Magnesia), referring to Magnesia in Thessaly or to areas in Asia Minor with that name. Two minerals are called μάγνης, namely lodestone and pyrolusite (manganese dioxide). Later the term μαγνησία was used for manganese dioxide. In the sixteenth century it was called "manganesum". It also was called Alabandicus (from the Alabanda region of Asia Minor) and Braunstein. Eventually the name of the element manganese was derived from "manganesum", whereas "magnesia" came to mean the oxide of a different element, magnesium.

Uses & Applications

Pyrolusite is an important source of manganese and is used to manufacture steel, manganese bronze, spiegeleisen, and ferromanganese. It is also an oxidizing agent that is used in the preparation of chlorine and disinfectants. Pyrolusite can also be used to dye glass, pottery, and bricks in various shades of violet, amber, and black.

Healing Properties

Pyrolusite is referred to as the stone of confidence and transformation. It is believed to have the power to transform negative energy into positive energy. It may help someone who is trying to dispel old patterns of behavior and begin a new outlook on life. It encourages confidence and courage for the wearer and allows for a re-balancing of the chakras.

Pyrolusite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Pyrolusite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Pyrolusite Localities Map

See where Pyrolusite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

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North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Associated Chakras

Root

Key Characteristics

Formation of Pyrolusite

Pyrolusite and romanechite are among the most common manganese minerals. Pyrolusite occurs associated with manganite, hollandite, hausmannite, braunite, chalcophanite, goethite, and hematite under oxidizing conditions in hydrothermal deposits. It also occurs in bogs and often results from alteration of manganite.