Manganite (Specimen #100236)

Mineral(s): Manganite 

Location: Caland Pit, Steep Rock Iron Mine, Atikokan, Schwenger Twp. Rainy River, Ontario, Canada 

Size: 14.0 x 6.8 x 6.2 cm 

Description:  A large, impressive specimen of sparkling, jet black manganite crystal blades. There is no damage to the manganite blades and the specimen ‘shines’ – a true classic. Specimens of this size and luster are very difficult to obtain and will become even more rare with the recent flooding of the mine property.

This specimen is from Ray Bernatchez’s personal collection and was self-collected during his tenure as the mine geologist at Steep Rock Iron Mines. Steep Rock Iron Mines are long closed, but during the mining period of the 1950’s and 60’s the mines produced world class specimens of manganite, hematite, geothite, quartz and siderite.  The ore body was discovered in 1938 and over 110 million yards of silt, gravel and rock were removed to expose the ore body.  The development of the mine was an unparalleled engineering feat at its time.   The mine is long closed and specimens like this are unattainable except from unique old collections. A recent visit to the Caland Pit reaffirmed that there will be no new collected specimens emerging from the flooded locale.