Rhodonite

Real mineral · uncommon · MnSiO₃

Manganese silicate forming in metamorphic manganese deposits. Characterised by pink to red colour with black veins of manganese oxide. Often found in contact metamorphic zones where manganese-rich sediments meet igneous intrusions.

Identity

Formula

MnSiO₃

Chemical class

silicate

Mineral group

Pectolite

Crystallography

Crystal system

triclinic

Habits

massive, tabular, granular

Fracture

conchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

6

Density

3.57 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous

Colors

pink, red, brown, black

Streak

white

Transparency

translucent, opaque

Geology

Origins

metamorphic

Host rocks

marble, schist, manganese deposits

Associated minerals

Calcite, Spessartine, Pyrolusite

Geography

Russia, USA, Sweden, Australia, Peru

Classification

Rarity

uncommon

Gem quality

Yes

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