$95Median
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Tephroite specimens for sale
2 for sale · $150–$1,750 USD
5 in the gallery
Tephroite is a manganese silicate mineral that crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. It typically forms small, prismatic to tabular crystals with a metallic to adamantine lustre and a gray to silvery color that can shift with light. The mineral is commonly found in hydrothermal and metamorphic environments, often associated with other manganese ores and minerals, which helps explain its occurrence in classic manganese-rich districts.
- Formula
- Mn2+2SiO4
- Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- Moderate Interest
- Classification notes
- Silicate; Nesosilicate (Orthosilicate); Mn silicate (tephroite group)
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- orthorhombic
- Mohs hardness
- 6
- Specific gravity
- 4.1–4.39
- Luster
- vitreous, greasy
- Transparency
- transparent, translucent, opaque
- Color
- gray, brown, red, pink, green
- Streak
- white, gray
- Cleavage
- distinct
- Fracture
- subconchoidal, uneven
- Crystal habit
- prismatic, granular, massive
- Gem mineral
Buy Tephroite specimens
View all 2Where Tephroite is found
Top localities
- Franklin Mine3 specimens
- Franklin1 specimen
- Wessels Mine1 specimen
About Tephroite
Notable specimens come from classic localities that have long supplied high-quality tephroite into mineral collections. Collectors seek well-formed crystals and complete habit, and some specimens exhibit pleasing crystal faces and sharp terminations that emphasize its elongated prisms. While tephroite occurs worldwide, it is comparatively rare, making well-documented pieces a desirable component of a serious collection for those focused on manganese and silicate minerals.
