mineral

Rhodonite

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

Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 3.5-3.7

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

Identified May 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 3.5-3.7

Formation & geological history

Formed in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal deposits. Often associated with manganese ores and hydrothermal veins during regional or contact metamorphism.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and as a minor ore of manganese.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodon', meaning rose. It is often distinguished from rhodochrosite by its harder quality and the presence of black manganese oxide veins. It was officially designated as the state gemstone of Massachusetts in 1979.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct pinkish color and characteristic black dendritic inclusions of manganese oxide. Found commonly in Australia, Brazil, Russia (Urals), and the USA (New Jersey and Massachusetts).