Characteristics of Rhodochrosite:

Chemical Name: Manganese carbonate

Formula: MnCO3

Colors: Rose-pink, cherry red

Structure: Hexagonal, trigonal

Hardness: 3.5-4

Specific Gravity: 3.6

Refractive Index: 1.6-1.8

Lustre: Vitreous to pearly

Streak: White

Locations: USA, South Africa, Romania, Gabon, Mexico, Russia, Japan

What is Rhodochrosite? 

Rhodochrosite’s classic color is rose-pink. It occurs both as transparent crystals and banded catallactic rock, and is soft and very fragile; faceted clear crystals are rare and sought after. Vibrant, facet-quality, cherry-red crystals are found in Colorado USA, and at Hotazel in south Africa. Banded “Inca rose” rhodochrosite comes from Argentina: this is the main source of banded material, which is cut en cabochon, into beads, and used in carvings. Concentrically banded slices of rhodochrosite stalactites are polished and mounted in silver as pendants.