The Mineral bustamite
Bustamite is an intermediary mineral between the Rhodonite and Wollastonite series. It is often regarded as a calcium-rich variety of Rhodonite, but scientifically it is classified as an individual mineral, not a variety. It is very similar in habit to Rhodonite, and often forms in the same localities. However, its color is usually less intense red than that of Rhodonite, most often having a light pastel pink or brownish-red color. Bustamite was named in honor of Mexican general Anastasio Bustamente (1780-1853).
Chemical Formula
(Mn,Ca)SiO3
Color
Most often light pink. May also be deep pink, light red, and brown. Some specimens tarnish black or brown upon exposure to air.
Properties
Streak
White |
Hardness
5 - 6 |
Transparency
Translucent |
Specific Gravity
3.0 - 3.4 |
Luster
Vitreous |
Cleavage
2,2 - forming at an angle near 90º |
Fracture
Hackly, uneven |
Tenacity
Brittle |
Noteworthy Localities
Bustamite is not a common mineral and has limited localities. The two most important locality for this mineral are Franklin, Sussex Co., New Jersey; and Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia.
Other localities are the Kanoiri Mine, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan; the Wessels Mine, Hotazel, in the Kalahari manganese fields, South Africa; Langban, Filipstad, Sweden; the Meldon
Quarry, Devon, England; the Treburland Mine, Altarnun, Cornwall, England; and Jail Hill, Haddam, Middlesex Co., Connecticut.
Distingushing Similar Minerals
Rhodonite - Usually has a darker color; otherwise difficult to distinguish.