mineral

Rhodochrosite

Manganese Carbonate (MnCO3)

Hardness: 3.5-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, rose-red, cherry-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific gravity: 3.4-3.7.

Hardness: 3
Color: Pink, rose-red, cherry-red
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, rose-red, cherry-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral; Specific gravity: 3.4-3.7.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins of medium-to-low temperature, often alongside silver, lead, and copper minerals. It can also form as secondary deposits in manganese-rich sedimentary rocks or as stalactitic structures in limestone caves.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental stone and in jewelry (cabochons and beads). In the past, it was mined as a minor ore of manganese for steel production, but today it is mostly a collector's mineral.

Geological facts

Rhodochrosite is the national gemstone of Argentina and the state mineral of Colorado. The 'Sweet Home Mine' in Colorado is world-famous for producing the highest quality 'cherry red' rhombohedral crystals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pink-to-red color and white zig-zag banding (in massive forms) or rhombohedral crystal shape. It will effervesce (bubble) slightly in warm diluted hydrochloric acid.