metamorphic
Tumbled rhodonite
Rhodonite, manganese inosilicate (MnSiO₃), commonly mixed with quartz and manganese oxides
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPink to rose-red with black or gray veining, opaque, vitreous to pearly luster, triclinic crystal system, and perfect cleavage; Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5, specific gravity about 3.4–3.7. The rounded, polished surface indicates a tumbled specimen.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Tumbled rhodonite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Pink to rose-red with black or gray veining, opaque, vitreous to pearly luster, triclinic crystal system, and perfect cleavage; Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5, specific gravity about 3.4–3.7. The rounded, polished surface indicates a tumbled specimen.
Formation & geological history
Forms mainly in manganese-rich metamorphic deposits through hydrothermal or contact-metamorphic processes, generally in Precambrian to younger mineralized rocks. Common localities include Australia, Russia, Brazil, Peru, Sweden, and the United States.
Uses & applications
Used as a lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, and ornamental objects; rarely used as a manganese ore. Attractive pieces have modest collector value.
Geological facts
Black veins are usually manganese oxides such as pyrolusite, a characteristic feature that distinguishes many rhodonite specimens from pink quartz. Rhodonite is also the official state gemstone of Massachusetts.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opaque pink color, dark branching veins, relatively high density, and hardness below quartz; quartz-rich look-alikes are harder and usually more translucent. A small tumbled piece is typically worth $3–$15 USD; unusually vivid, well-patterned material may reach $20–$50.
More like this
