Where is Shale with Manganese Dendrites found?
Shale (sedimentary rock) with Manganese Oxide (mineral)
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Open the appShale with Manganese Dendrites occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Shale with Manganese Dendrites
Worldwide
Manganese dendrites can be found in shales and other fine-grained sedimentary rocks in various locations globally, as the conditions for their formation are not geographically restricted. Notable occurrences are often found in areas with exposed shale formations.
Morocco
Known for producing attractive specimens of manganese dendrites on various sedimentary rocks, including shales and limestones.
United States (e.g., Utah, Wyoming, Montana)
Various shale formations across the western and central U.S. can exhibit manganese dendrites, particularly in areas with exposed sedimentary sequences.
Collecting tips
- Look for Exposed Shale Outcrops. Search for road cuts, stream beds, quarries, or other areas where shale layers are exposed. The dendrites are typically found on the surface of weathered or freshly broken shale pieces.
- Examine Bedding Planes and Fracture Surfaces. The dendritic patterns are most commonly observed on the flat surfaces where the shale has split along its bedding planes or on fracture surfaces. Look for dark, intricate, branching patterns.
- Distinguish from Fossils. While visually similar to plant fossils, manganese dendrites are inorganic mineral growths. Fossils typically show more three-dimensional structure, cellular detail, and are often preserved in a different color or texture than the surrounding rock. Dendrites are typically flat and lack organic structure.
- Carry a Hand Lens. A hand lens (10x magnification) can help in distinguishing the fine details of the dendritic patterns and confirming their inorganic nature.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Shale: Variable (gray, black, brown, red, green). Dendrites: Black to dark brown.
- Luster:
- Shale: Dull to earthy. Dendrites: Submetallic to dull.
- Streak:
- Black to brownish-black (for the manganese oxides).
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