Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite has a lovely natural pink to red color. Rhodochrosite gemstones are primarily translucent to opaque banded beads and cabochons. These bands are often in concentric or zigzag patterns of alternating white and pink (or red) colors. The transparent red forms large enough to be cut into gemstones are extremely valuable and cherished by rare gemstone connoisseurs.
| Chemical Formula | MnCO3 |
| Color | Red, Pink, Banded |
| Hardness | 3.5 - 4 |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.60 - 1.82 |
| SG | 3.0 - 3.3 |
| Transparency | Transparent to nearly opaque |
| Double Refraction | -0.22 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | 1,3 - rhombohedral |
| Mineral Class | Rhodochrosite |
Though Rhodochrosite has a very pretty color, it is not a durable gemstone because of its low hardness. It is easily scratched, and care must be ensured to preserve it. Much of the banded form of Rhodochrosite comes from Argentina, where the Rhodochrosite forms as stalagmites and stalactites in ancient Inca Silver mines and caves.
Sources:
Most gemstone Rhodochrosite originates in Catamarca, Argentina. The Sweet Home Mine in Colorado and the Wudong Mine in China have produced gemmy clear Rhodochrosite. Other sources include South Africa, Peru, and Japan.
Similar Gemstones:
Rhodonite is much harder and usually contains black banding, and Thulite is harder.