Rhodochrosite
A variety of Calcite Group
What is Rhodochrosite?
A manganese carbonate mineral famed for its reddish-pink hues, rhodochrosite is officially listed as one of Argentina's national symbols and is also Colorado's state mineral. Despite its beautiful coloring, it is rarely encountered as faceted jewelry because it is so difficult to cut.
Uses & Applications
Rhodochrosite was occasionally used as an ore of manganese, but its low quantities don't make it economically feasible. Today, rhodochrosite is used as an ornamental stone for making cabochons, small boxes, or other lapidary items. In rare cases, rhodochrosite appears in the form of well-formed crystals, which can be extremely valuable as mineral specimens.
Healing Properties
Rhodochrosite represents self-love as well as deeper love in relationships. It may help to aid in emotional healing. It is considered a stone of happiness that can bring joy to its user. Rhodochrosite is often employed to help in forgiveness issues. It can be used in meditation, worn as jewelry, or carried close to the body.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.578-1.820
- Birefringence
- 0.208-0.220
- Pleochroism
- Distinct: pinkish-red, colorless/light pink
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
- Dispersion
- 0.015
Discover Values
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Rhodochrosite Localities Map
See where Rhodochrosite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Known since the 13th century, when the Inca people mined the mineral, rhodochrosite is also known as Inca Rose. Ancient Inca people believed that this stone was formed from the blood of their former kings and queens. It is an official gemstone of Argentina and the state gem of Colorado (USA).
Associated Chakras
Key Characteristics
Formation of Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite occurs as a hydrothermal vein mineral along with other manganese minerals in low temperature ore deposits as in the silver mines of Romania where it was first found. Banded rhodochrosite is mined in Capillitas, Argentina. It was first described in 1813 in reference to a sample from Cavnic, Maramureş, present-day Romania. According to Dimitrescu and Radulescu, 1966 and to Papp, 1997, this mineral was described for the first time in Sacaramb, Romania, not in Cavnic, Romania. The name is derived from the Greek word ῥοδόχρως meaning rose-colored.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Harm Reason: Rhodochrosite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Manganese.
- ⚠️Heavy Metal: Manganese
- ⚠️How to prevent the risks of Rhodochrosite?
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pink, rose, red, yellowish-grey, brown, white, gray
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5 - 4
- Density
- 3.7 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Pearly, Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- MnCO3
- Elements
- C, Mn, O
Also Known As
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