Rhodonite

Rhodonite has a distinct pink or rose-red color, although stones containing black veins are more popular than a uniform pink. Massive rhodonite is usually opaque to translucent, and is carved, or cut as cabochons or beads. Transparent crystals are rare and fragile, but some may be cut for collectors. The name rhodonite comes from ‘rhodos,’ the Greek for rose, referring to its distinct color.

The black areas of the massive rhodonite are rich in manganese.

Occurrence

A rhodonite crystal or massive stone occurs in Sweden, the Urals (Russia), and Australia. Other localities for fine-grained rhodonite include New Zealand, England, Japan, South Africa, Madagascar, India, Italy, Canada, the USA, Mexico, and Brazil.

Rhodonite Properties

• Specific Gravity: 3.60
• Refractive Index: 1.71-1.73
• Birefringence (DR): 0.014
• Luster: Vitreous
• Crystal Structure: Triclinic
• Composition: Manganese silicate
• Hardness: 6

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