mineral
Rhodochrosite
Manganese Carbonate (MnCO3)
Hardness: 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Soft pink to rose-red, often with white banding or inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in 3 directions. Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7.
- Hardness
- 3
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More mineral →
Explore Rhodochrosite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Soft pink to rose-red, often with white banding or inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral in 3 directions. Specific Gravity: 3.5-3.7.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily as a secondary mineral in hydrothermal veins associated with silver, copper, and lead deposits, or as a secondary mineral in sedimentary manganese deposits.
Uses & applications
Popular as an ornamental stone, lapidary material, gemstone, and mineral specimen for collectors. Minor ore of manganese.
Geological facts
Rhodochrosite is the official state mineral of Colorado, home to the famous Sweet Home Mine near Alma, which produced world-class cherry-red rhodochrosite crystals.
Field identification & locations
Recognized by its distinct rose-pink hue, softness, and effervescence when exposed to warm, dilute hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Argentina, Peru, Colorado (USA), South Africa, and Russia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock