mineral

Polished pink-and-gray stone, likely rhodonite

Rhodonite (manganese inosilicate, MnSiO₃), possibly mixed with quartz or feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 5.5–6.5 Mohs; pink to rose-red with gray or black manganese-oxide areas, vitreous to pearly luster, opaque to translucent, and typically massive rather than visibly crystalline. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or polishing.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Rhodonite forms mainly in metamorphosed manganese-rich sediments and hydrothermal veins, commonly in Precambrian to younger metamorphic terrains. This specimen’s exact locality and age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary material for cabochons, beads, carvings, and tumbled stones; rarely used industrially as a manganese ore. Common polished pieces generally have modest collector value.

Geological facts

The pink color comes from manganese, while black or gray veins commonly consist of manganese oxides such as pyrolusite. A white or translucent portion may be quartz or another associated mineral.

Field identification & locations

Confirm with a streak, hardness, and close inspection: rhodonite usually gives a white streak and scratches glass, while strong black veining supports the identification. Common sources include Russia, Australia, Sweden, Peru, and the United States.