Rhodonite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameRhodonite
Chemical FormulaMnSiO3
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemtriclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {110} and {1-10}, good on {001}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.6
Colorspink, rose-red, brownish-red
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalitySterling Hill, Ogdensburg, Franklin Mining District, Sussex, New Jersey, USA
Mineral Groupsilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralswillemite, franklinite, zincite, calcite, garnet, quartz
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen displays vibrant rose-pink to reddish-pink Rhodonite, often appearing massive, with characteristic black manganese oxide inclusions. It is associated with other minerals, including Willemite, as seen in the image.
Geological Context
Rhodonite typically forms in metamorphic environments, particularly in manganese-rich deposits, or as a product of metasomatism in manganese-bearing sediments. It is often found in skarns and hydrothermal veins.
