Inorganic Gemstones

Rhodochrosite

Rough Rhodochrosite

Rhodochrosite derives its pink colour from manganese. Gem-quality crystals do occur, and therefore are cut for collectors, however the fine-grained, banded rock is much more popular for decoration.

Rhodochrosite happens in veins related to manganese, copper, silver, and lead deposits. Argentina has got the oldest mines, and banded rhodochrosite after that may also be called “Inca rose”. Today, the best commercial sources are in the united states.


Properties
Chemical Composition: 
Manganese Carbonate - MnCO3
Classification / Type: 
-
Colors / Varieties: 
  • Banded variety (translucent to opaque): Pink, white, grey, brown.
  • Transparent: Pink, red, orange-red
Crystal System / Forms: 
Trigonal System / Rhombohedral crystals, massive aggregates.
Hardness: 
4
Specific Gravity: 
3.50 - 3.70
Cleavage / Fracture: 
3 directional cleavage but not seen due to aggregate / Uneven fracture.
Optic Character: 
Anisotropic, D.R.; Uniaxial negative
Lustre: 
Sub-vitreous
Refractive Index / Birefringence: 
1.600 - 1.820 / 0.220. A diffused spot R.I. reading in aggregates.
Pleochroism: 
None.
Dispersion: 
-
Magnification: 
Banding in aggregates
U.V. Fluorescence: 
Varying with most showing a weak red fluorescence under ultra violet lamp.
Spectrum: 
Band centered at 551nm
Cause of Color: 
Manganese
Treatment (Enhancement): 
-
Specific Tests & Remarks: 
Effervesces with acid.
Synthesis: 
-
Simulants (with key separation tests): 
Rhodonite (structure, birefringence), Chalcedony (R.I., S.G., birefringence), Hydrogrossular Garnet (birefringence, structure
Geological Occurrence: 
As a secondary mineral in manganese ore deposits, as granular masses and in hydrothermal veins.
Sources: 
Argentina, U.S.A., Romania, Hungary, South Africa.
Cuts & Uses: 
Facetted cuts, cabochon, beads, etc.

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