Rhodochrosite

Real mineral · uncommon · MnCO₃

Manganese carbonate forming in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary manganese deposits. Its characteristic pink banding results from varying manganese content. The stalactitic variety from Argentina displays concentric pink and white layers.

Identity

Formula

MnCO₃

Chemical class

carbonate

Mineral group

Calcite, Siderite, Smithsonite

Also known as

Manganese spar, Inca rose (banded variety)

Crystallography

Crystal system

trigonal

Habits

rhombohedral, massive, botryoidal

Fracture

uneven

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

3.5

Density

3.7 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous, pearly

Colors

pink, red, orange, brown

Streak

white

Transparency

transparent, translucent

Geology

Origins

hydrothermal, sedimentary

Host rocks

manganese deposits, limestone

Associated minerals

Pyrite, Galena, Sphalerite, Calcite

Geography

Argentina (Catamarca), USA (Colorado), South Africa, Romania, Peru

Classification

Rarity

uncommon

Gem quality

Yes

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