What is Rhodonite?
Rhodonite is a manganese silicate known for rose-red colour, black manganese-oxide veining and attractive lapidary and collector material.
Mineralogy and crystal structure
Reference formula: MnSiO3. Rhodonite is triclinic and commonly occurs as massive or granular material, although sharp crystals are highly valued. Black veins may be manganese oxides and are part of the visual identity of many cabochons. Rhodonite is classified with silicates and has a triclinic crystal system. Typical hardness is 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 3.4–3.7.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include rose-red, pink, brown, black. The usual tabular, granular, massive habit and vitreous, pearly lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Rhodonite forms in or is associated with manganese-rich metamorphic rocks, skarns, hydrothermal veins and oxidised manganese deposits. Important documented localities include Australia, Russia, Peru, Brazil, Sweden, Madagascar and the United States.
Rose-red colour with graphic black veining
Rhodonite is commercially strong because every piece can work as both a mineral specimen and a design stone. The contrast between pink silicate and black oxide veins gives slabs and cabochons an immediately recognisable pattern.
Collecting and care
Avoid acids and prolonged soaking, and protect polished surfaces from harder stones. Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth.
