ID: 14
Chemical Formula
MnSiO3
Hardness (Mohs)
5.5 - 6
Crystal System
Triclinic
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous to pearly
Diaphaneity
Transparent to translucent
Color
Typically pink to rose-red, often with black veins or patches of manganese oxide. Can also be brownish-red.
Cleavage
{110} and {110} perfect at 90° to each other
Crystal Habit / Mode of Occurrence
Typically tabular or prismatic crystals, often with rounded edges. More commonly found as massive, granular, or cleavable aggregates.
Density
3.4-3.7 g/cm³
Fun Facts
Rhodonite often has black veining or matrix due to the oxidation of manganese. It's a popular mineral for carving and jewelry due to its beautiful pink color. The name "rhodonite" comes from the Greek word "rhodos," meaning "rose," referring to its typical color.