Rhodochrosite derives its pink color from manganese. Gem-quality crystals do occur, and are cut for collectors, but the fine-grained, banded rock is more commonly used for decoration.
Rhodochrosite occurs in veins associated with manganese, copper, silver, and lead deposits. Argentina has the oldest mines, and banded rhodochrosite from there is sometimes called Inca rose. Today, the prime commercial sources are in United States.
Manganese
Manganese Carbonate – MnCO3
Trigonal System / Rhombohedral crystals, massive aggregates.
Facetted cuts, cabochon, beads, etc.
Banding in aggregates
Anisotropic, D.R.; Uniaxial negative
1.600 – 1.820 / 0.220. A diffused spot R.I. reading in aggregates.
Rhodonite (structure, birefringence), Chalcedony (R.I., S.G., birefringence), Hydrogrossular Garnet (birefringence, structure
Argentina, U.S.A., Romania, Hungary, South Africa.
Effervesces with acid.
Band centered at 551nm
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