mineral

Banded Rhodochrosite

Manganese carbonate (MnCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale; Color: Rose-pink, raspberry-red, often with concentric or wavy white/cream banding; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific gravity: 3.5 - 3.7

Hardness: 3
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in low- to moderate-temperature hydrothermal veins and epithermal deposits, as well as stalactitic or botryoidal secondary cave-like deposits from circulating manganese-rich groundwaters.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as an ornamental gemstone, polished carvings (such as spheres and eggs), cabochons for jewelry, and prized mineral collection specimens; historically utilized as a minor manganese ore.

Geological facts

Banded stalactitic rhodochrosite is prominently mined in the Capillitas Mine in Catamarca Province, Argentina, where it is known as 'Rosa del Inca' (Inca Rose) and is Argentina's national gemstone.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its distinct pink color, soft Mohs hardness (easily scratched by a copper coin or knife), effervescence in warm dilute hydrochloric acid, and alternating zig-zag or banded pink-and-white patterns.