Alabandite
Image: Darla Sondrol (CC0)
Mineral NameAlabandite
Chemical FormulaMnS
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorgreenish-black
Cleavageperfect cubic {100}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity4
Colorsblack
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityArizona, USA
Mineral GroupSulfides
Usescollector, minor_manganese_ore
Associated Mineralsrhodochrosite
Rarityrare
Description
This specimen displays alabandite as a black, fine-grained, and massive mineral, where individual crystals are not discernible. It is seen in association with pink rhodochrosite.
Geological Context
Alabandite is typically found in epithermal vein deposits, often associated with other manganese ores, indicating formation from hydrothermal fluids.
