mineral

Rhodonite

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

Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Pink to rosy red, often with black manganese oxide inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified June 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Pink to rosy red, often with black manganese oxide inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Formation & geological history

Typically forms in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks or hydrothermal ore deposits where manganese-rich fluids react with carbonate rocks.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for carvings, as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons and beads), and occasionally as a minor ore of manganese.

Geological facts

The name is derived from the Greek word 'rhodos', meaning rosy. It is the state gemstone of Massachusetts and is often confused with rhodochrosite, though rhodonite is harder and contains black dendritic veins.

Field identification & locations

Check for the characteristic 'rose-pink' color paired with black manganese oxide veins or spots. It is commonly found in Russia (Ural Mountains), Australia, Brazil, and the USA (New Jersey and Massachusetts).