Rhodonite
A manganese silicate known for its rosy pink color, often with black dendritic inclusions.
Physical & Optical Properties
RI Range1.716–1.752
SG Range3.57–3.76
SG Typical3.60
Hardness (Mohs)5.5–6.5
Crystal SystemTriclinic
Optic CharacterDR Biaxial (+)
Birefringence0.014
Dispersion0.016
Fluorescence LWInert
Fluorescence SWInert
Chelsea FilterInert
PleochroismWeak
ColorsRed Pink, Brown, Black
SpeciesRhodonite
Key Differentiators
- Pink to red color
- Black manganese oxide veining and dendritic inclusions — distinctive black vein network through pink-red matrix
- High RI and SG
Common Simulants
- Rhodochrosite: Rhodochrosite: RI 1.600–1.816; SG 3.70; effervesces with HCl (carbonate); much softer (3.5–4 Mohs); often banded.
Commonly Confused With
Commonly confused with: Rhodochrosite.
Treatments
- Wax (surface polish on carvings)
Price Context
Natural — low ($/ct)$5
Natural — high ($/ct)$30
NotePer carat; ornamental to faceted; black manganese oxide veining is characteristic
Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.
About Rhodonite
A manganese silicate known for its rosy pink color, often with black dendritic inclusions.
Identifying a rhodonite? GemID walks through these tests in order — RI, SG, fluorescence, and more.
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