Pyrolusite

specimen number:
8311443

location:
Taylor Mine, Alberta, Michigan, USA

description:
Compact radiating spray with bright lustrous pyrolusite crystals with minor matrix. In good condition, nice for the species from this well-known locality.

The Taylor Mine, located near Alberta in Baraga County, Michigan, is situated within the Marquette Iron Range of the Upper Peninsula. Geologically, the deposit consists of iron and manganese mineralization hosted within the Paleoproterozoic-aged Bijiki Iron Formation, which is part of the Michigamme Slate. The site is notable for the occurrence of pyrolusite, a manganese dioxide mineral that typically forms as black, earthy masses or as dark, metallic, prismatic crystals within the oxidized portions of the ore body. Historically, the Taylor Mine was discovered in 1872 and saw its most significant period of mining and quarrying between 1880 and 1883, followed by a brief resurgence in activity around 1907. Total production during these years was relatively modest, focusing on manganese-rich iron ore used for metallurgical purposes. As of 2026, the mine remains inactive, but the site is a significant locality for mineralogists studying the diverse manganese oxides of the Lake Superior region and the historical development of the Marquette Range.

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