mineral
Rhodochrosite
Manganese Carbonate (MnCO3)
Hardness: 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale; Color: Rose-red, pink, sometimes yellowish or brown; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 3.5 to 3.7
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Rose-red, pink, sometimes yellowish or brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale; Color: Rose-red, pink, sometimes yellowish or brown; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific Gravity: 3.5 to 3.7
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins associated with ore deposits of silver, lead, and copper, as well as in sedimentary manganese deposits.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as an ornamental gemstone, for decorative carvings, jewelry, and as an ore of manganese.
Geological facts
Rhodochrosite is the national gemstone of Argentina, where famous stalactitic deposits are mined, often referred to as 'Inca Rose'.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive pink and white banded patterns and reactivity with dilute hydrochloric acid. Found in Argentina, South Africa, the USA, and Peru.
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