mineral

Rhodonite

Rhodonite (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink to rosy red with black dendritic inclusions of manganese oxide; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified April 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through regional or contact metamorphism and hydrothermal processes. It is often found in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone, for lapidary work (cabochons, beads), and occasionally as an ore of manganese. It is popular in jewelry and for carving decorative objects.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodos', meaning rosy. It was once used in Russia as a stone for sarcophagi of czars and is the state gemstone of Massachusetts.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink color contrasted with black manganese oxide veins or patches. It is harder than rhodochrosite (which fizzes in acid). Common locations include Russia, Australia, Brazil, Sweden, and the USA (New Jersey).