Purpurite Mineral Colection
Purpurite is a rare manganese iron phosphate mineral, characterized by its striking purple hue, which derives its name from the Latin word “purpura,” meaning purple. This mineral typically occurs in shades ranging from deep violet to reddish-purple and is primarily composed of manganese phosphate with the chemical formula MnPO4·H2O. The presence of iron can lead to variations in color intensity and appearance.
Purpurite is classified as a secondary mineral, forming through the alteration of primary manganese-bearing minerals such as lithiophilite and triphylite. This transformation often occurs in phosphate-rich environments, particularly within granite pegmatites.