Braunite
A variety of Minerals
What is Braunite?
Braunite is a silicate mineral containing both di- and tri-valent manganese with the chemical formula: MnMn6[O8|SiO4]. Common impurities include iron, calcium, boron, barium, titanium, aluminium, and magnesium. Braunite forms grey/black tetragonal crystals and has a Mohs hardness of 6 - 6.5. It was named after the Wilhelm von Braun (1790–1872) of Gotha, Thuringia, Germany. A calcium iron bearing variant, named braunite II (formula: Ca(Mn,Fe)14SiO24), was discovered and described in 1967 from Kalahari, Cape Province, South Africa.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Braunite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Braunite Localities Map
See where Braunite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Brownish black, steel-grey
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6 - 6.5
- Density
- 4.86 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mn2+Mn3+6(SiO4)O8
- Elements
- Mn, O, Si
Also Known As
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Braunite FAQs
How do I identify Braunite?
Braunite can be identified by its hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Brownish black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Braunite?
Braunite typically appears in Brownish black, steel-grey. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Braunite?
Braunite has a hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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