Crystal & mineral guide
Wolframite
(Fe,Mn)WO₄
Major tungsten ore — dense dark blades with perfect cleavage.
Identify Wolframite with RockScanAbout Wolframite
Wolframite (ferberite–huebnerite series) is a primary tungsten ore with scheelite. Extreme density and perfect cleavage aid ID. Tungsten is critical for hard metals and high-temp alloys. Often found with tin mineralization.
Wolframite belongs in a crystal identifier workflow because photo cues — color zoning, crystal habit, and surface luster — combine with measurable traits like Mohs 4–4.5 and specific gravity 7.0–7.5. Use RockScan’s camera to get a first-pass ID, then confirm with the checklist below.
Wolframite properties
| Mohs hardness | 4–4.5 |
|---|---|
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Luster | Submetallic to metallic |
| Color | Dark gray to black |
| Composition | Iron manganese tungstate |
| Formation | High-temperature hydrothermal veins with cassiterite |
| Occurrence | China, Russia, Bolivia, Portugal, Myanmar |
| Specific gravity | 7.0–7.5 |
| Cleavage | Perfect |
How to identify Wolframite
- Very heavy dark blades
- Perfect cleavage
- Brown-black streak; SG ~7.1–7.5
Collector notes
- 'Wolfram' is the European name root for tungsten (W)
- China dominates global tungsten supply
Value context: Ore by WO₃ content; well-formed crystals are uncommon collectibles.
Wolframite FAQ
How do you identify Wolframite?
Wolframite ((Fe,Mn)WO₄) is typically recognized by dark gray to black color, submetallic to metallic luster, Mohs hardness 4–4.5, and monoclinic crystal system. RockScan can suggest Wolframite from a photo and surface these checks on the result card.
What is Wolframite made of?
Wolframite composition: Iron manganese tungstate. It forms via high-temperature hydrothermal veins with cassiterite and is found in China, Russia, Bolivia, Portugal, Myanmar.
Is Wolframite valuable?
Ore by WO₃ content; well-formed crystals are uncommon collectibles.
