Dannemorite is a mineral that belongs to the pyroxene group. It is a complex silicate mineral with a chemical formula of Na(MnFe)(FeMn)Si2O6. This mineral is named after the town of Dannemora in Sweden where it was first discovered.
Dannemorite has a dark brown to black color with a vitreous to resinous luster. It usually forms prismatic crystals, but can also occur in grainy to massive forms. It has a Mohs hardness ranging from 5.5 to 6, indicating moderate hardness. This mineral has a relatively high specific gravity of around 3.7 to 4.0.
In terms of its composition, dannemorite is primarily made up of sodium (Na), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn), along with silicon (Si) and oxygen (O). It typically crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system, forming elongated prisms or columns.
Dannemorite is commonly found in metamorphic rocks associated with iron and manganese ore deposits. It is often found in association with other minerals, such as hematite, magnetite, and garnet. Its occurrence is relatively rare, and it is considered to be a minor ore of iron and manganese.
Due to its scarcity and limited occurrence, dannemorite is mainly of interest to mineral collectors and scientists studying mineralogy. Its distinctive color and crystal habit make it an attractive specimen for collectors, but its industrial uses are limited due to its low abundance and the availability of more economically viable sources of iron and manganese minerals.
