Rhodochrosite
| Colour | Pink, Red, Yellow, Gray |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 3.5–4 |
| Lustre | Vitreous to pearly |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Trigonal |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | On {101} perfect; parting on {102} |
| Fracture | Uneven, conchoidal |
| Chemical formula | MnCO 3 |
| Specific gravity | 3.7 |
What is Rhodochrosite?
Rhodochrosite is a manganese carbonate mineral with chemical composition MnCO3. In its pure form (rare), it is typically a rose-red colour, but it can also be shades of pink to pale brown. It streaks white, and its Mohs hardness varies between 3.5 and 4.5. Its specific gravity is between 3.45 and 3.6. The crystal system of rhodochrosite is trigonal, with a structure and cleavage in the carbonate rhombohedral system. The carbonate ions (CO2−3) are arranged in a triangular planar configuration, and the manganese ions (Mn2+) are surrounded by six oxygen ions in an octahedral arrangement. The MnO6
How to identify Rhodochrosite
- Lustre: Vitreous to pearly.
- Hardness: Mohs 3.5–4 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Trigonal crystal system.
Rhodochrosite in different forms
Stones often confused with Rhodochrosite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Rhodochrosite?
Rhodochrosite is Mohs 3.5–4 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Rhodochrosite?
Rhodochrosite is typically pink, red, yellow, gray (Pink, rose, rose-red, red, cherry-red, yellow, yellowish grey, grey, cinnamon-brown, white, may be banded; colourless to).