Hardness: 4.00
Refractive Index: 1.60-1.80
Specific Gravity: 3.70
Birthstone:
Astral Stone: Virgo
Anniversary Stone:
Origination: Argentina & the United States.
Care & Cleaning: Rhodochrosite is fragile and should be handled with care. To clean, rub lightly with a soft polishing cloth.
An optional dab of olive oil will produce a beautiful shine. If necessary, a plain water rinse may also be used. Do not soak.
Fiction, Facts & Folklore:
Rhodochrosite is a rose colored gem that is usually seen with bands of white. However, these bands may also be black or gray.
Manganese is the primary coloring agent for rhodochrosite.
Rhodochrosite is associated with copper, lead and silver deposits.
For years Afghanistan was the only source for rhodochrosite. However, a discovery of this lovely gem surfaced in Colorado during the 20th century.
This important find made the United States the number one source for rhodochrosite worldwide.
The primary use for rhodochrosite today is the creation of artifacts.
When seen in jewelry, it is usually cut en cabochon and set in sterling silver.
Although it most likely will never be given a place of prominence in the gem world, rhodochrosite is a lovely pink gem that should be a part of your collection.
Since consumer awareness is almost non-existent, there is little demand for rhodochrosite at retail.
Because of its� limited sources, the future of rhodochrosite is uncertain at best.