Minnesotaite
A variety of Minerals
What is Minnesotaite?
Minnesotaite is an iron silicate mineral with formula: (Fe,Mg)3Si4O10(OH)2. It crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system and occurs as fine needles and platelets with other silicates. It is isostructural with the pyrophyllite-talc mineral group.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Minnesotaite 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.
Minnesotaite Localities Map
See where Minnesotaite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Minnesotaite
Minnesotaite was first described in 1944 for occurrences in the banded iron formations of northern Minnesota for which it was named. Co-type localities are in the Cuyuna North Range, Crow Wing County and the Mesabi Range in St. Louis County. It occurs associated with quartz, siderite, stilpnomelane, greenalite and magnetite. In addition to the low grade metamorphic banded iron formations it has also been reported as an alteration mineral associated with sulfide bearing veins.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Greenish-gray to olive green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1.5 - 2
- Density
- 2.97 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Fe2+3Si4O10(OH)2
- Elements
- Fe, H, O, Si
Identify Minnesotaite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Minnesotaite FAQs
How do I identify Minnesotaite?
Minnesotaite can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale, Greenish-gray to olive green color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Minnesotaite?
Minnesotaite typically appears in Greenish-gray to olive green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Minnesotaite?
Minnesotaite has a hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of minnesotaite of Minnesotaite?
Minnesotaite was first described in 1944 for occurrences in the banded iron formations of northern Minnesota for which it was named. Co-type localities are in the Cuyuna North Range, Crow Wing County and the Mesabi Range in St. Louis County. It occurs associated with quartz, siderite, stilpnomelane, greenalite and magnetite. In addition to the low grade metamorphic banded iron formations it has also been reported as an alteration mineral associated with sulfide bearing veins.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
