Pyrolusite from the Großer Hermannstein, Germany – 1 unique flat
This flat contains numerous specimens with pyrolusite, characterized by dark grey to blackish-grey coatings. Typical are dense, massive aggregates with a partly velvety to earthy habit, creating strong contrasts against the yellowish-brown matrix. The surfaces show a variety of structures, ranging from compact sections to finer crystal coatings.
The specimens come from the Großer Hermannstein in Thuringia, Germany, a classic locality for manganese oxides. Pyrolusite is a manganese dioxide and the most important ore mineral for manganese extraction. It crystallizes in the tetragonal system but usually occurs in fine needle-like, radial, or massive aggregates. With its deep black coloration and striking appearance, pyrolusite is a remarkable collector’s mineral.