Melanophlogite

A variety of Minerals

Melanophlogite specimen

What is Melanophlogite?

Melanophlogite (MEP) is a rare silicate mineral and a polymorph of silica (SiO2). It has a zeolite-like porous structure which results in relatively low and not well-defined values of its density and refractive index. Melanophlogite often overgrows crystals of sulfur or calcite and typically contains a few percent of organic and sulfur compounds. Darkening of organics in melanophlogite upon heating is a possible origin of its name, which comes from the Greek for "black" and "to be burned".

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Melanophlogite 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Melanophlogite Localities Map

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

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Key Characteristics

Formation of Melanophlogite

Melanophlogite is a rare mineral which usually forms round drops (see infobox) or complex intertwinned overgrowth structures over sulfur or calcite crystals. Rarely, it occurs as individual cubic crystallites a few millimeters in size. It is found in Parma, Torino, Caltanissetta and Livorno provinces of Italy; also in several mines of California in the US, in Crimea (Ukraine) and Pardubice Region (Czech Republic).

More Images

Melanophlogite specimen
Robert M. Lavinsky

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Colorless, white, water-clear (pale yellow to deep red brown with impurities)
Hardness (Mohs)
6.5 - 7
Streak
White

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
46SiO2 · 6(N2,CO2) · 2(CH4,N2)
Elements
C, H, N, O, Si
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Melanophlogite FAQs

How do I identify Melanophlogite?

Melanophlogite can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Melanophlogite?

Melanophlogite typically appears in Colorless, white, water-clear (pale yellow to deep red brown with impurities). Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Melanophlogite?

Melanophlogite has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

What is the formation of melanophlogite of Melanophlogite?

Melanophlogite is a rare mineral which usually forms round drops (see infobox) or complex intertwinned overgrowth structures over sulfur or calcite crystals. Rarely, it occurs as individual cubic crystallites a few millimeters in size. It is found in Parma, Torino, Caltanissetta and Livorno provinces of Italy; also in several mines of California in the US, in Crimea (Ukraine) and Pardubice Region (Czech Republic).

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