mineral

Rhodonite

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

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Rose pink to brownish red with black manganese oxide inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified May 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Rose pink to brownish red with black manganese oxide inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7

Formation & geological history

Forms in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks, hydrothermal veins, or contact metamorphic deposits. Often associated with galena, calcite, and sphalerite.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative carvings, gemstones for jewelry (cabochons and beads), and as an ore of manganese in some historical contexts.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodos', meaning rose. It was designated as the state gemstone of Massachusetts in 1979.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive rose-pink color often paired with black dendritic or vein-like patterns of manganese oxide. Found in Russia, Brazil, Australia, and the United States (New Jersey, Massachusetts).