Pyrolusite after Ramsdellite

specimen number:
2354186

location:
Mistake Mine, Yavapai Co., Arizona, USA

description:
A large open pocket across the top of matrix lined with blocky crystals of pyrolusite, these replacing ramsdellite crystals, measuring to 0.3 cm in size. This is in good condition.

Located in the Aquarius Mountains of Yavapai County, Arizona, the Mistake Mine is a historic underground tungsten and manganese claim situated within Precambrian granitic host rocks and associated quartz-carbonate veins. Initially prospected in the early twentieth century for manganese and tungsten minerals like ferberite, the deposit experienced intermittent mining activity driven by wartime strategic mineral demands. Hydrothermal fluid movement through fractures in the granite resulted in primary and secondary manganese mineralization, with pyrolusite forming abundant dark grey to black fibrous masses, radiating aggregates, and crusts inside quartz cavities. Although active commercial mining has long since ceased, the site remains well known among regional mineral collectors for producing sharp, aesthetic pyrolusite crystal sprays and associated manganese oxide specimens.

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