mineral
Rhodonite
Manganese Silicate (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs. Color: Pink, rose-red, or brownish-red, typically featuring black veins or patches of manganese oxides. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
- Hardness
- 5
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs. Color: Pink, rose-red, or brownish-red, typically featuring black veins or patches of manganese oxides. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal Structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.
Formation & geological history
Forms in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks or hydrothermal deposits. Often associated with ores of zinc or manganese, occurring in massive or crystalline forms within metasomatic environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative stone for lapidary work, cabochons, carvings, and bead jewelry. Due to its hardness and color, it is also a popular collector's mineral.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Greek word 'rhodon', meaning 'rose'. It was once used in Russia as a protective stone for travelers and babies, and it is the official state gemstone of Massachusetts, USA.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its distinct pink color contrasted with black dendritic (branching) manganese oxide veins. Common locations include Russia, Sweden, Australia, Brazil, and the USA (New Jersey and Massachusetts).
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