Manganite

Germany has produced some of the largest and best manganite (manganese hydroxide) crystals in the world, as shown by this superb example. This specimen was purchased by Australian Museum Trustee and Professor of Geology and Mineralogy from University of Sydney, Archibald Liversidge, from mineral dealer Theodor Schuchardt (1824–1891) of Gorlitz, Germany, in 1878 for 15 shillings – a lot of money in those days. Due to its excellence, it has been on continuous display in successive mineral exhibitions since its acquisition. Internationally known mineral collector, Albert Chapman, considered this specimen the finest manganite he had ever seen.

Prof. Liversidge made an overseas visit as a Commissioner for the Colony at the Paris Exposition. Parliament had allocated £1000 to the Australian Museum Trustees for the purchase of mineral specimens by Liversidge from well-known European dealers. He bought 1500 specimens of high quality, including this superb manganite. His mineral purchases were of such high quality that many have been on continuous display since their 1878 acquisition.

Hartz Mountain, Ilfeld, Germany. 7 x 5.5 x 4.7 cm. D.50477. Albert Chapman Collection.