mineral

Rhodonite

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

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink to rose-red with black manganese oxide veins; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 3.5-3.7

Hardness: 5
Color: Pink to rose-red with black manganese oxide veins
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink to rose-red with black manganese oxide veins; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 3.5-3.7

Formation & geological history

Formed in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks or hydrothermal deposits. It often occurs as a result of contact metamorphism of manganese ores. Found in Precambrian to Cenozoic geological settings.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone for jewelry, cabochons, and decorative carvings (like the bird shown). It is also a minor ore of manganese and valued by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodon', meaning rose. It was once used in Russia as a protective stone for travelers and babies. It is the state gem of Massachusetts.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pink color paired with black dendritic (tree-like) or veined patterns of manganese oxide. Found commonly in Brazil, Russia (Urals), Australia, and the USA. It is often confused with rhodochrosite, which is softer and reacts with acid.