mineral

Rhodonite

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

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red with distinct black manganese oxide veins; 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 March 7, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins. Often associated with ore deposits of lead, silver, and copper. Geological age varies by deposit location.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for lapidary work (cabochons and beads), carvings, and occasionally as a minor ore of manganese.

Geological facts

The name is derived from the Greek word 'rhodon', meaning 'rose'. It is the official state gemstone of Massachusetts, USA. The black dendritic patterns are actually manganese oxide inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct pink color paired with black spider-web-like veins. Common locations include Russia (Ural Mountains), Australia, Sweden, Brazil, and the USA. For collectors, look for high-contrast specimens with deep pink hues.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

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

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral