:Locality: Harstigen Mine, Persberg, Värmland, Sweden Size: 2.2 × 2.2 × 2 cm Description: Harstigite is a extremelly rare sorosilicate (of calcium, manganese and beryllium). Harstigite forms masses colorless to beige tone. Species presents red fluorescence under SW-UV light. With label of Dr. M. Murashko and confirmed by our SEM-EDS analysis (Be is not visible by EDS). — Photo: Joan Rosell , from rosellminerals.com · CC BY-SA 4.0
Harstigite
Harstigite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the silicate class, with the chemical formula Ca₆Be₄Mn²⁺(SiO₄)₂(Si₂O₇)₂(OH)₂.
It crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system (space group Pnam).
Key properties: Mohs hardness 5.5; specific gravity 3.16; Vitreous luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Har, grandfathered status — known before the IMA’s founding, named in 1886.
A rare mineral found in open fissures in a metamorphosed manganese deposit.
It is found associated with Hausmannite, dolomite, calcite, rhodonite, andradite, manganoan humite, barite.
The name refers to the Harstigen mine, Sweden, where it was found.