mineral
Rhodochrosite (Beads) and Citrine (Pendant)
Rhodochrosite (MnCO3) and Quartz variety Citrine (SiO2)
Rhodochrosite: Hardness 3.5-4.0, Pink/rose color, Vitreous/pearly luster, Trigonal crystal system. Citrine: Hardness 7.0, Yellow to brownish-orange, Vitreous luster, Hexagonal crystal system.
Identified More mineral →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Rhodochrosite: Hardness 3.5-4.0, Pink/rose color, Vitreous/pearly luster, Trigonal crystal system. Citrine: Hardness 7.0, Yellow to brownish-orange, Vitreous luster, Hexagonal crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Rhodochrosite forms in hydrothermal veins and as a secondary mineral in manganese deposits. Citrine is typically formed by the natural heat treatment of amethyst or smoky quartz within the Earth.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in jewelry and as ornamental gemstones; Rhodochrosite is also an ore of manganese.
Geological facts
Rhodochrosite is popularly known as the 'Inca Rose' and is the national gemstone of Argentina. Most commercial citrine on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst.
Field identification & locations
Identify Rhodochrosite by its distinct pink color and white banding (when applicable). Citrine is identified by its clarity and golden-yellow hue. Commonly found in Argentina, South Africa, and Brazil.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral