Gemstone Glossary

Rhodochrosite

Rhodochrosite has been a mineral of interest lately. It occurs in ranges of color from very pale pink, pale to deep red, orange red, brownish red, orange-brown, pale to dark brown and black The name is derived from the Greek ‘Rhodon’ meaning ‘Rose’ and ‘Chroma’ meaning ‘Color’, alluding to its famous rose-color. Massive forms of its banded varieties (especially pink and white and pink and red bands) are extremely attractive and are often used in semi-precious jewelry.


Rhodochrosite is found in a number of locations worldwide. For several years now the Sweet Home Mine in Alma and the Sunnyside Mine in Silverton, Colorado has been mined exclusively for Rhodochrosite specimens. The Hotazel Mine in South Africa is famous for producing deep red clusters of Rhodochrosite crystals. However the most famous mines are in the provinces of Catamarca and La Rioja, Argentina. The mines there produce an attractive pink- and red-banded Rhodochrosite. The variety is sometimes called ‘Inca Rose’ and is valued as an ornamental stone.

Rhodochrosite is a manganese carbonate mineral (MnCO3). It is a rather soft stone, ranking only 3.5 to 4 on the Moh’s Scale of Hardness and has a Specific Gravity of approximately 3.5. Rhodochrosite is commonly found associated with Calcite, Quartz and metal sulfides.

Rhodochrosite is often carved into figurines. Massive tubular forms are often sliced into circles with concentric bands that are unique in the mineral kingdom. Fine Rhodochrosite crystals are often cut into cabochons. With its famous rose color, Rhodochrosite jewelry is truly beautiful and unique.