The Story of Rhodonite Gemstones

Rhodonite

Consumer Information

What color is it?: As you can see above rhodonite is a pink color with black mottled lines running through it.

What is the story behind this gemstone?: This is mostly an ornamental gemstone which is most often cut en cabochon. It makes some pretty accessory jewelry pieces since the color will vary from slight pink to almost a light red.

Can I wear it everyday?:Yes, rhodonite is a very durable gemstone.

Is it expensive?: No. generally rhodonite will be in the same price range as malachite and rhodochrosite cabochon cut gemstones.

Is it a birthstone?: No.

What do I need to know before going shopping?: Once again, call ahead. Few retail jewelers will carry rhodonite as a regular inventory gemstone. So make sure you are shopping with a well experienced independent retail jeweler when looking for rhodonite.

General Information

Source: United States, Sweden, Australia, and Canada main sources

Chemical: (Mn2,Fe2,Mg,Ca)SiO3 an oxide of manganese ore

Formation: In metamorphic rocks with high contents of manganese

Crystal System: Triclinic

Unusual Properties: Black streaks running through stone is manganese oxides

Gemological Information

RI: 1.733 – 1.744

Birefringence: .011

Optic Character: B +

Specific Gravity: Varies: 3.40 – 3.70

Hardness: Average 6

Transparency: Opaque except in very rare instances of crystal formation

Special Identifying Properties and Tests: Strong absorption band at 5480, black mottling is common

Synthetics: None known at this time.

Imitations: Several possible.