Pyrolusite Mineral – Pack of 2
by American Educational Products

A mineral that consists of manganese dioxide, pyrolusite is an important ore of manganese. It is typically black or bluish-black, with a metallic luster to it. Its name is derived from the Greek words for fire and wash, which refer to its use as a method of removing any tints from glass.

Pyrolusite is used extensively for the manufacturing of spiegeleisen (pig iron), ferromanganese, and other manganese alloys. It has also seen use as an oxidizing agent in the preparation of chlorine, and in batteries, though high-quality batteries must use synthetic products, and as a component in the preparation of disinfectants (permanganates) and decolorizing glass. It has also been used as a colorant, because of its ability to impart violet, amber, and black colors into glass, pottery, and bricks, as well as in the manufacturing of green and violet paints.

Each rock or mineral specimen measures approximately 1-2 inches in length along its longest side.

Origin: WY