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Purpurite
Purpurite is a manganese phosphate mineral with with varying amounts of iron depending upon its source.
Colors It Comes In - brownish black, purple, and violet to dark red
Fracture Pattern - Uneven/Irregular
Shape -
Freeform: Purpurite is often sold raw or polished in a freeform shape.
Cabochons: Purpurite is a good material for cabochons.
Beads: Purpurite can be used to make beads.
Carvings: Purpurite can be used to make carvings.
Heart-shaped: Natural purpurite can be found in a heart shape.
Oval: Natural purpurite can be found in an oval shape.
Pear: Natural purpurite can be found in a pear shape.
Luster - Earthy, Shiny
Texture - granular, chalky
Where It Can Be Found -
North Carolina: The type locality for purpurite is the Faires Tin mine in Kings Mountain, Gaston County.
South Dakota: Purpurite can be found in the Custer district of Custer County.
California: Purpurite can be found in the Stewart mine and Tincon pegmatite in the Pala district of San Diego County.
France: Purpurite can be found in Chanteloube in the Haute-Vienne department.
Rwanda: Purpurite can be found in Kitumba.
Namibia: Purpurite can be found in Sandamab and Erongo, and the largest and most cost-effective gem-quality purpurite comes from Usakos.
Australia: Purpurite can be found in Wodgina and Marble Bar in Western Australia.
Portugal: Purpurite can be found in Portugal.
Maine: Purpurite can be found in Maine.
Hardness On The Mohs Scale - 4 To 4.5 Out Of 10