Sonolite
A variety of Minerals
What is Sonolite?
Sonolite is transparent to translucent and is red-orange, pinkish brown to dark brown in color and colorless in thin sections. The mineral has a granular habit or occurs as prismatic to anhedral crystals up to 2.5 cm (0.98 in). Sonolite is the manganese analogue of clinohumite, a dimorph of jerrygibbsite, and a member of the humite group. The mineral occurs in metamorphosed manganese-rich deposits. Sonolite has been found in association with calcite, chlorite, franklinite, galaxite, manganosite, pyrochroite, rhodochrosite, tephroite, willemite, and zincite.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.763-1.793
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Sonolite 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.
Sonolite Localities Map
See where Sonolite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Red-orange, pinkish brown to dark brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mn2+9(SiO4)4(OH)2
- Elements
- H, Mn, O, Si
Identify Sonolite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Sonolite FAQs
How do I identify Sonolite?
Sonolite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Red-orange color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Sonolite?
Sonolite typically appears in Red-orange, pinkish brown to dark brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Sonolite?
Sonolite has a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
