mineral

Rhodochrosite

Manganese Carbonate (MnCO3)

Hardness: 3.5 - 4.0 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink to rose-red. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral. Specific Gravity: 3.5 - 3.7.

Hardness: 3
Color: Pink to rose-red
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 - 4.0 on Mohs scale. Color: Pink to rose-red. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral. Specific Gravity: 3.5 - 3.7.

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins associated with manganese ore deposits and metasomatic replacement environments.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone for jewelry, in lapidary work, as an ore of manganese, and highly prized by crystal collectors.

Geological facts

Rhodochrosite is the national gemstone of Argentina and the state mineral of Colorado, USA. Its name comes from the Greek words 'rhodon' (rose) and 'chros' (color).

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive pink color, soft hardness, and white streak. Major locations include Argentina, Peru, South Africa, and the USA (Colorado).