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Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite is a popular gemstone composed of manganese carbonate. [1]
Rhodochrosite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Rhodochrosite:- Transparency: Rhodochrosite can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, rhodochrosite can be hexagonal or trigonal.
- Luster: In terms of luster, rhodochrosite can be pearly or vitreous (glassy).
- Streak: Rhodochrosite streaks white.
- Hardness: Rhodochrosite's hardness ranges from 3.5 to 4 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Rhodochrosite's specific gravity ranges from 3.4 to 3.6.
Rhodochrosite: Background and Summary
Rhodochrosite is a beautiful mineral that is known for its pink to red color and its unique banded pattern. It is a carbonate mineral that is composed of manganese, calcium, and carbon. Rhodochrosite is often found in veins associated with silver, lead, and copper ores. It is typically formed in hydrothermal veins and can be found in a variety of locations around the world, including Argentina, Peru, South Africa, and the United States.One of the most distinctive features of rhodochrosite is its color. It can range from a light pink to a deep red, depending on the concentration of manganese in the mineral. Rhodochrosite also has a unique banded pattern, which is caused by variations in the concentration of manganese and other elements as the mineral is formed. This pattern can be used to identify rhodochrosite in the field.
Rhodochrosite has a number of uses in industry and jewelry-making. It is often used as an ore of manganese, which is an important component in steel production. Rhodochrosite is also used as a gemstone, and is prized for its unique color and pattern. It is often cut into cabochons, beads, and other decorative shapes for use in jewelry.
Rhodochrosite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Rhodochrosite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent, opaque |
| Chemical Formula | MnCO3 |
| Chemical Composition | manganese carbonate |
| Specific Gravity | 3.4, 3.6, 3.7 |
| Hardness | 3.5, 4 |
| Streak | white |
| Crystallography | hexagonal, trigonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.578, 1.84 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: red, pink, brown sometimes: gray, rose, yellow less common: tan, pale, white, band, orange |
| Category | carbonate |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.218 |
| Fracture | 1: 1 |
Rhodochrosite: FAQ
Q: Is rhodochrosite rare?A: While rhodochrosite is not the most common mineral, it is not considered rare. It can be found in a variety of locations around the world.
Q: Can rhodochrosite be used for anything besides jewelry?
A: Yes, rhodochrosite is often used as an ore of manganese, which is an important component in steel production.
Q: How can I tell if a mineral is rhodochrosite?
A: Rhodochrosite is typically pink to red in color and has a banded pattern. It can be identified by its unique color and pattern.
Sources
- Rhodochrosite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhodochrosite
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