GeoMiner Free earth-science tools

Built by a geologist

Wolframite (Hübnerite) identification and geology

Manganese-dominant end member of the wolframite series. Forms reddish-brown translucent crystals. Color: Reddish-brown to brownish-black. Luster: Submetallic to adamantine. Streak: Yellow-brown. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction. Hardness: 4-4.5. Transparency: Translucent. Crystal system: Monoclinic. Chemical formula: MnWO₄. Specific gravity: 7.12. Formation: Forms in high-temperature hydrothermal quartz veins associated with tin-bearing granites. Common geological settings: Peru, USA, China; found in tungsten-tin hydrothermal veins. Common look-alikes and related entries: Wolframite, Cassiterite, Sphalerite.

Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner
GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-02-10T20:29:50.275794+00:00
Review status
Published; not independently peer-reviewed
  • IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
  • Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

Read GeoMiner's editorial methodology or report a content issue.

Common questions

What is Wolframite Hübnerite?
Manganese-dominant end member of the wolframite series. Forms reddish-brown translucent crystals.
How can you identify Wolframite Hübnerite?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Reddish-brown to brownish-black; lustre: Submetallic to adamantine; streak: Yellow-brown; Mohs hardness: 4-4.5; cleavage: Perfect in one direction; crystal system: Monoclinic; transparency: Translucent. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Wolframite Hübnerite form?
Forms in high-temperature hydrothermal quartz veins associated with tin-bearing granites.
Where is Wolframite Hübnerite commonly found?
Peru, USA, China; found in tungsten-tin hydrothermal veins.
What is Wolframite Hübnerite commonly confused with?
Wolframite Hübnerite may be confused with Wolframite, Cassiterite, Sphalerite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.

JavaScript is loading the interactive GeoMiner experience. The identification tools provide educational candidates, not laboratory confirmation.