Rhodochrosite

Overview
Rhodochrosite is a soft mineral often confused with rhodonite. In its pure form, rhodochrosite is a bright red color, but is more commonly seen in a light pink with white banding. Rhodochrosite is often referred to as a love stone, and is also believed to increase self confidence. (photo by cobalt123)

About the Stone

Rhodochrosite is a mineral made up of manganese carbonate. In its pure form, it is a vibrant bright pink color. Often times, calcium and other minerals find there way into the mix, the end result being a beautiful light pink color with white banding. Occasionally you will also find brown and white rhodochrosite.

Rhodochrosite is a soft stone, only a 3.5-4 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Rhodochrosite is very rarely faceted, most often it is cut in a cabochon style to set into jewelry. The word rhodochrosite is derived from Greek and means rose colored. Rhodochrosite is the state mineral of Colorado and is often found in silver mines. Until people started actively looking for good quality rhodochrosite specimens, they were routinely discarded in mine dump piles.

Rhodochrosite is found in Argentina, Peru, Romania, Poland, Canada, and the United States.

Metaphysical and Folklore

The Incas once thought that rhodochrosite was actually the blood of their former rulers turned to stone.

Today, rhodochrosite is considered to be a stone of love and balance; expanding the consciousness and balancing the emotions. It is recommended by some healers to improve eyesight and by others to increase self confidence.

Differentiating Rhodochrosite and Rhodonite

There is a very simple way to differentiate rhodochrosite and rhodonite, despite their very similar colors. Rhodochrosite is usually found with white banding throughout, sometimes with other colors as well. Rhodonite, on the other hand, is found in more of a flat color, sometimes with black inclusions.