By Chisom Ibemere
Rhodonite is a silicate mineral that occurs as rounded crystals, masses, or grains in various manganese ores, often in association with rhodochrosite. Rhodonite means compassion and love.
Rhodonite was first discovered in the Urals Region of Russia in the 1790s, particularly in the Malosemenevskoe Mine in the Siberian city of Yekaterinburg. Its name was given after the Greek word ‘rhodon’ which means pink. The stone can be seen in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, and the United States.
Rhodonite is known as a pink to red mineral with a mohs hardness of 5.5-6.5. It is a manganese inosilicate and often forms in large crystals. It’s distinctive colour result by the presence of manganese oxide in it. Rhodonite is often found with black manganese oxide veins that give it a unique appearance.
Rhodonite is a popular gemstone and jewellery component due to its unique pink colour and attractive appearance. It is also used as an ornamental stone and is popularly carved into figurines, beads, and other decorative items. It is used often as a lapidary material for cabochons and faceting. It can be useful as a minor ore of manganese due to its high manganese content.
Rhodonite is found in several regions across the world, including the Ural Mountains of Russia, which is it’s discovery place. It also occurs in places like Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, and the United States.
Rhodonite is valuable due to its desirable pink colour and its use as a gemstone and ornamental purposes. Its value depends on factors such as size, quality, and cut. The largest producers of rhodonite are Russia and the United States.