How do I identify Pyrophanite?

Pyrophanite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Blood red color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Pyrophanite?

Pyrophanite typically appears in Blood red, greenish yellow, brownish, blackish. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Pyrophanite?

Pyrophanite has a hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Pyrophanite

A variety of Minerals

What is Pyrophanite?

Pyrophanite is a manganese titanium oxide mineral with formula: MnTiO3. It is a member of the ilmenite group. It is a deep red to greenish black mineral which crystallizes in the trigonal system.

Pyrophanite Market Value Calculator

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

Pyrophanite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Formation of Pyrophanite

It was first described in 1890 from an occurrence in the Harstigen Mine, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden. Its name was derived from the Greek πΰρ, fire, and φαίνεσθαι, to appear, because of the deep red color of the mineral. Its main occurrence is in manganese deposits that have undegone metamorphism. It also occurs in granite, amphibolite and serpentinite as an uncommon accessory mineral. Associated minerals include ilmenite, geikielite, hematite, spinel, gahnite, chromite, magnetite, ganophyllite, manganophyllite, hendricksite, garnet and calcite.