mineral

Rhodonite

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

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red with distinct black inclusions of manganese oxide. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal system: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect, two directions at nearly 90 degrees.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks as well as in hydrothermal replacement deposits and some igneous environments. It is often found associated with other manganese minerals like rhodochrosite.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone, for lapidary work (cabochons, beads), and occasionally as a minor ore of manganese. High-quality transparent crystals are extremely rare and used for gemstone collecting.

Geological facts

Rhodonite's name comes from the Greek word 'rhodos', meaning rosy. It is the state gemstone of Massachusetts, USA. The black dendritic veining often seen in the stone is caused by the oxidation of manganese minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic pink color paired with black manganese oxide veins and its relative hardness (quartz will scratch it, but it will scratch glass). Common locations include Russia (Urals), Australia, Brazil, and the USA (New Jersey and Massachusetts).