Rhodonite

Rhodonite is an inexpensive pink gemstone. It often has impurities of black manganese oxide dendrite veins running through it, creating interesting formations and providing a nice contrast. The name Rhodonite is derived from the term rhodos, which is Greek for "Rose colored".

Rhodonite is polished into beads and cabochons, and is used in necklaces, bracelets, and pendants. It is occasionally carved into ornamental objects, ornate tiles, and small statues. The deep pink to red transparent forms are occasionally faceted as rare gemstones.

Sources:

Sources of gem Rhodonite are Russia, Australia, Japan, Madagascar, Sweden, Brazil, and Peru. Rhodonite also comes from the U.S. at New Jersey and Massachusetts.

Similar Gemstones:

Rhodochrosite is much softer and usually contains white banding, and Thulite lacks the black manganese oxide dendrites and inclusions.