mineral

Rhodonite

Manganese Silicate (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to Pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions

Hardness: 5
Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red
Luster: Vitreous to Pearly

Identified June 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to Pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions

Formation & geological history

Formed in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks or hydrothermal veins through contact metamorphism or metasomatism. Often found in association with ores of manganese.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone, for lapidary work (cabochons, beads), and occasionally as a minor ore of manganese. Also popular in metaphysical and crystal collecting communities.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodos', meaning rose. It is often found with black manganese oxide inclusions that create dendritic or vein-like patterns, though these specimens appear more uniform.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pink hue and relative hardness; unlike Rhodochrosite, Rhodonite will not react to cold hydrochloric acid. Common locations include Russia, Australia, Brazil, Sweden, and the USA (New Jersey, Massachusetts).