Tantalite’s name alludes to the tantalum that makes up a large part of its chemical formula. Tantalite has numerous industrial uses but is only of interest for its mineral specimens and for exotic gemstone collectors. The color ranges from brownish to black sometimes with a red component.
General Information
LWUV: Inert
Tantalite Colors
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Black
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Brown
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Colorless
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Pink
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Red
Countries of Origin
Tanzania, United Republic Of; Afghanistan; Russian Federation; United States of America; Madagascar; Canada; Sweden; Unknown; Norway; China; Finland; Brazil; Zimbabwe; Australia
Care
Normal care
Species/Variety
Manganotantalite
Manganotantalite is an intense red to reddish brown variety of tantalite with a high manganese and low iron composition. Prized for its exceptional dispersion, this mineral yields beautiful faceted gemstones, thanks in large part to its orthorhombic crystal structure. However, faceted gems are very limited in availability.