mineral
Pink Rhodonite
Rhodonite (Manganese Iron Magnesium Calcium Silicate - (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Pink to rose-red, often with black manganese oxide veins; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Pink to rose-red, often with black manganese oxide veins
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Pink to rose-red, often with black manganese oxide veins; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic rocks rich in manganese, and also in hydrothermal veins. Often associated with manganese ore deposits and contact metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for jewelry (cabochons and beads), carvings, and as a minor ore of manganese.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodos', meaning rose. It was once given to travelers in Russia as a protective stone to ward off hidden dangers. It is the state gemstone of Massachusetts.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink color and high hardness compared to rhodochrosite (which is softer and reacts to acid). Look for black dendritic patterns (manganese oxide) which are common in many specimens.
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