Transparency crystals are transparent to translucent. But more commonly is found as the 24 sided trapezohedron. Combinations of these forms are common and sometimes the rare faces of the hexoctahedron, a 48 sided crystal habit that rarely is seen by itself, can also combine with these other forms making very attractive, complex and multifaceted crystals. Massive and granular occurrences are also seen. Cleavage is absent.
Fracture is conchoidal.
Streak is white. Associated Minerals are feldspars , quartz , tourmalines , topaz , beryl , rhodonite and other manganese minerals. Best Field Indicators are crystal habit, color, and hardness.