mineral

Rhodochrosite

Manganese Carbonate (MnCO3)

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 on Mohs scale. Color: Rose-red to pink with white/cream banding. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral. Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.7.

Hardness: 3
Color: Rose-red to pink with white/cream banding
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified June 6, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 on Mohs scale. Color: Rose-red to pink with white/cream banding. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral. Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.7.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins associated with silver, copper, and lead deposits, or in sedimentary deposits as a manganese ore. Typically formed during the Cenozoic era in many major deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a minor ore of manganese. Widely utilized as a semi-precious gemstone for jewelry (cabochons), carvings, and highly prized as a collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Known as 'Rosa del Inca' in Argentina, it is the national gemstone of Argentina and the state mineral of Colorado. The most famous locality is the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive pink color and wavy white banding (in massive form) or rhombohedral crystal shape. Common locations include Argentina, Peru, South Africa, and the USA (Colorado). It reacts poorly to acids.