Manganokaskasite is a rare molybdenum niobium manganese hydroxide, typically iron black. It was approved as a distinct mineral species in 2013. It was first described from Mt. Kaskasnyunchorr, Khibiny alkaline complex, Kola Peninsula, Russia.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareKaskasite family

Manganokaskasite

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

No image

Is this manganokaskasite?

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 manganokaskasite with a known reference. Manganokaskasite sits at Mohs 3-4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Manganokaskasite leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Manganokaskasite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: iron black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: platy crystals.

Often confused with

Manganokaskasite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Manganokaskasite is noticeably harder (Mohs 3-4 vs. 2).

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Often found alongside manganokaskasite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: (Mo,Nb)S₂·(Mn₁₋ₓAlₓ)(OH)₂₊ₓ
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 4.09 g/cm³
Colors: Iron Black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Platy Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect On {001}
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Igneous Rocks

Where rockhounds find manganokaskasite

Classic worldwide localities

Kola Peninsula, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline igneous rocks country, the host setting where manganokaskasite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, feldspar, aegirine in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify manganokaskasite?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include iron black.

Where is manganokaskasite found?+

Notable localities include Kola Peninsula, Russia.

What rocks look like manganokaskasite?+

Manganokaskasite is most often confused with Kaskasite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with manganokaskasite?+

Manganokaskasite commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Feldspar, Aegirine. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does manganokaskasite form in?+

Manganokaskasite typically forms in alkaline igneous rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is manganokaskasite used for?+

Manganokaskasite is used in collector.

Find manganokaskasite on the map

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