Tantalite-(mn)
Tantalite-(Mn)
A variety of Minerals
What is Tantalite-(mn)?
The mineral group tantalite [(Fe, Mn)Ta2O6] is the primary source of the chemical element tantalum. It is chemically similar to columbite, and the two are often grouped together as a semi-singular mineral called coltan or "columbite-tantalite" in many mineral guides. However, tantalite has a much greater specific gravity than columbite (8.0+ compared to columbite's 5.2). Iron-rich tantalite is the mineral tantalite-(Fe) or ferrotantalite and manganese-rich is tantalite-(Mn) or manganotantalite. Tantalite is also very close to tapiolite. Those minerals have same chemical composition, but different crystal symmetry orthorhombic for tantalite and tetragonal for tapiolite. Tantalite is black to brown in both color and streak. Manganese-rich tantalites can be brown and translucent.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Tantalite-(mn) 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.
Tantalite-(mn) Localities Map
See where Tantalite-(mn) is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Tantalite-(mn)
Tantalite occurs in granitic pegmatites that are rich in rare-earth elements, and in placer deposits derived from such rocks. It has been found in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia (Guainía and Vichada), Egypt, northern Europe, Madagascar, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, The Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States (California, Colorado, Maine, and Virginia), and Zimbabwe. Brazil has the world's largest reserve of tantalite (52.1%).
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pink to nearly colourless, reddish brown to black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6
- Density
- 8.01 g/cm³
- Streak
- Red, scarlet to black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mn2+Ta2O6
- Elements
- Mn, O, Ta
Also Known As
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Tantalite-(mn) FAQs
How do I identify Tantalite-(mn)?
Tantalite-(mn) can be identified by its hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, Pink to nearly colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Tantalite-(mn)?
Tantalite-(mn) typically appears in Pink to nearly colourless, reddish brown to black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Tantalite-(mn)?
Tantalite-(mn) has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of tantalite-(mn) of Tantalite-(mn)?
Tantalite occurs in granitic pegmatites that are rich in rare-earth elements, and in placer deposits derived from such rocks. It has been found in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia (Guainía and Vichada), Egypt, northern Europe, Madagascar, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, The Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States (California, Colorado, Maine, and Virginia), and Zimbabwe. Brazil has the world's largest reserve of tantalite (52.1%).
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