Psilomelane
The stone of shadow and depth
The smooth black manganese stone, known in tradition as a stone of shadow, inner reflection and growth.
Psilomelane is a name for hard, black oxides of manganese and barium, romanechite among them. It forms rounded, kidney-shaped masses with a smooth, dull-metallic surface, sometimes banded with grey pyrolusite. The name comes from the Greek psilos, "smooth", and melas, "black". Today it is treated as a group name rather than a single mineral, and it is found in the USA, Mexico, Germany, Australia and South Africa. It is often mistaken for black hematite, but the two are unrelated.
General information
- Name
- Psilomelane
- Mineral group
- Barium manganese oxide
- Chemical formula
- BaMn²⁺Mn⁴⁺₈O₁₆(OH)₄
- Colours
- Black to dark grey, sometimes with grey bands; dull, sub-metallic lustre
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5–6
- Specific gravity
- 3.7–4.7
Zodiac signs
- Sagittarius
Traditional meaning
- Shadow: Traditionally invites you to look inward and meet the hidden side of the self.
- Reflection: Linked to self-reflection and exploring what lies beneath the surface.
- Growth: In crystal tradition, a stone of change and personal growth.
- Emotion: Traditionally accompanies emotional work and the processing of feelings.
- Depth: A stone for quiet, thoughtful moments, without hurry.
Care
Fairly hard but opaque, and it can scratch. Clean with a soft cloth, a little mild soap and water, rinse well and dry gently. No ultrasonic, no harsh chemicals, and keep it from extreme heat and long sun.
Meanings, zodiac signs and elements come from various traditions. They are not scientific or medical information and differ between sources.