mineral

Rhodonite

Rhodonite (Manganese Iron Magnesium Calcium Silicate - Mn%,Fe%,Mg,Ca)SiO₃

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

Hardness: 5
Color: Pink, rose-red, or cherry-red with black veins
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and metamorphic rocks rich in manganese. Often found associated with magnesium ores and formed during regional metamorphism.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, and collector eggs or spheres. Also an ore of manganese in rare large deposits.

Geological facts

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

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive rose-pink color coupled with black dendritic veins of manganese oxide. Found in Russia (Ural Mountains), Australia, Brazil, and the USA (New Jersey).

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