mineral
Rhodonite
Manganese Silicate (MnSiO₃)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red with black manganese oxide veins, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect, Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.7
- Hardness
- 5
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Rose-pink to brownish-red with black manganese oxide veins, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Triclinic, Cleavage: Perfect, Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.7
Formation & geological history
Forms in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks or hydrothermal fluids. It is often found associated with calcite and other manganese minerals in marble or skarn deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative stone, gems in jewelry (cabochons or beads), and as a minor source of manganese. Highly popular among mineral collectors.
Geological facts
The black dendritic patterns or veins seen in the specimen are manganese oxide inclusions. It is the state gemstone of Massachusetts and was once used in building materials in Russia.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct 'pink and black' color pairing and hardness (harder than rhodochrosite). Commonly found in Australia, Russia, Sweden, Peru, and the USA (New Jersey and Massachusetts).
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