mineral

Rhodonite

Manganese Silicate (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink to rose-red with black manganese oxide inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 3.5-3.7

Hardness: 5
Color: Pink to rose-red with black manganese oxide inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes or contact metamorphism in manganese-rich rocks. Most specimens are found in metamorphic rocks associated with ore deposits and dated to various geological eras from Precambrian to more recent tectonic events.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for lapidary work (cabochons, beads), and occasionally as a minor ore of manganese. It is popular among crystal collectors for its aesthetics.

Geological facts

Rhodonite is the state gem of Massachusetts. Its name is derived from the Greek word 'rhodon', meaning rose. It is often confused with rhodochrosite, but rhodonite is much harder and typically contains black dendritic veins of manganese oxide.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink color paired with black spider-web-like veins (manganese oxide). Found in locations such as the Ural Mountains (Russia), Australia, Sweden, Brazil, and the USA (New Jersey and Massachusetts). Collectors should look for high-contrast color patterns.