Rhodonite

Rhodonite is an inexpensive pink gemstone. It is a pink manganese silicate of variable composition that often contains significant amounts of iron, magnesium, and calcium. The chemical composition is (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3. It often has impurities of black manganese oxide dendrite veins running through it, creating interesting formations and providing a nice contrast. The name Rhodonite is derived from the term rhodos, which is Greek for "Rose colored". Other names for rhodonite include "manganese spar" and "manganolite." It has a hardness of 5.5 - 6. When used as a gemstone, Rhodonite is almost always opaque.

Rhodonite was used as an important carving stone in Russia, with classic ornamental pillars, serving bowls, tiles, and sculptures made from Rhodonite for Russian aristocrats, especially the Russian czars. Sources of rhodonite include: Russia, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Sweden, Peru, and England. In the United States it has been found in North Carolina, Colorado, New Jersey, and has been named as the state gem of Massachusetts.

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Pink Rhodonite stones with Lepidolite.

Pink Rhodonite accented with sterling beads.