Pyrophanite
A variety of Minerals
What is Pyrophanite?
Pyrophanite is a manganese titanium oxide mineral with formula: MnTiO3. It is a member of the ilmenite group. It is a deep red to greenish black mineral which crystallizes in the trigonal system.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Pyrophanite 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.
Pyrophanite Localities Map
See where Pyrophanite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Pyrophanite
It was first described in 1890 from an occurrence in the Harstigen Mine, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden. Its name was derived from the Greek πΰρ, fire, and φαίνεσθαι, to appear, because of the deep red color of the mineral. Its main occurrence is in manganese deposits that have undegone metamorphism. It also occurs in granite, amphibolite and serpentinite as an uncommon accessory mineral. Associated minerals include ilmenite, geikielite, hematite, spinel, gahnite, chromite, magnetite, ganophyllite, manganophyllite, hendricksite, garnet and calcite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blood red, greenish yellow, brownish, blackish
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 6
- Density
- 4.596 g/cm³
- Streak
- Ochre yellow with greenish tinge
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mn2+TiO3 Sb-bearing varieties are known from several metamorphic manganese mineralisations.
- Elements
- Mn, O, Ti
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Pyrophanite FAQs
How do I identify Pyrophanite?
Pyrophanite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Blood red color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Pyrophanite?
Pyrophanite typically appears in Blood red, greenish yellow, brownish, blackish. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Pyrophanite?
Pyrophanite has a hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of pyrophanite of Pyrophanite?
It was first described in 1890 from an occurrence in the Harstigen Mine, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden. Its name was derived from the Greek πΰρ, fire, and φαίνεσθαι, to appear, because of the deep red color of the mineral. Its main occurrence is in manganese deposits that have undegone metamorphism. It also occurs in granite, amphibolite and serpentinite as an uncommon accessory mineral. Associated minerals include ilmenite, geikielite, hematite, spinel, gahnite, chromite, magnetite, ganophyllite, manganophyllite, hendricksite, garnet and calcite.
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