mineral

Polished red banded stone, likely rhodonite

Rhodonite — manganese inosilicate, MnSiO₃; possibly rhodochrosite or dyed quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pink to crimson polished surface with pale banding and dark inclusions; vitreous to pearly luster. Rhodonite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5, triclinic crystals, indistinct cleavage, and specific gravity about 3.4–3.7.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Rhodonite forms mainly in manganese-rich metamorphic deposits, commonly with quartz and manganese oxides; its age depends on the host terrain. The image shows a small polished or cabochon-like specimen, so internal texture is partly obscured.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, cabochon, carving material, and collector specimen; rarely used industrially as a manganese ore.

Geological facts

Black dendritic or vein-like manganese-oxide markings are common in rhodonite and help distinguish it from similar pink stones. Rhodochrosite is generally softer and more distinctly white-banded.

Field identification & locations

Confirm with hardness, streak, and density tests: rhodonite is scratched by quartz, commonly leaves a white streak, and feels relatively heavy. Common sources include Australia, Russia, Peru, Sweden, and the United States; visual identification is provisional because the photo lacks a clear matrix and scale.