One of the more fragile gemstones, rhodochrosite is both the national gemstone of Argentina and the state mineral of Colorado.
RHODOCHROSITE (rō-də-krō-sīt) is a carbonate mineral, and good-quality specimens are found in Argentina, northern United States, Japan, South Africa, Peru, Romania, Gabon, Mexico, and Russia. Its chemical composition is (Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca,Zn,Co)CO3. It ranks at a 3.5 hardness on the Mohs scale.
The most common place for high-quality specimens is the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado. Previously a silver mine, the rhodochrosite that grew on the walls was seen as useless and often thrown away. Although rare, well-formed crystals are found more often in this mine than anywhere else in the world. Rhodochrosite that is pure manganese carbonate is almost ruby-red, but when impurities are present the color can vary from red to nearly white.
Rhodochrosite grows on rock walls in caves, mines, fractures, and veins. Water carries trace minerals, and either precipitates or runs down walls. Over time, the minerals will accumulate and crystals will grow. In this manner, it’s possible for rhodochrosite to grow on cave floors and ceilings as stalagmites and stalactites. This is usually how banded rhodochrosite forms.
Metaphysical Properties
Rhodochrosite is a stone for improving one’s self. It can soothe emotional trauma and help the user to gain confidence. It promotes self-love and personal well-being, as well as helping bring ease of mind.
This stone is used especially for healing, and is used by healers and in meditation. It can help resolve problems, both personal and spiritual, and ease stress and worries. It helps balance emotions and internal dualities. Rhodochrosite removes fears and brings relief from stressful situations and problems.
Although mainly used for balance, this crystal is also well-known for being associated with the heart chakra and being able to bring love and romance. It also helps strengthen relationships from within, by healing and helping the user and allowing them to focus on their partner.
Care and Cleansing
Rhodochrosite is a very soft stone, so even small things can potentially cause scratches. The best method of cleaning is to gently wash the stone with a gentle soap and wipe it with a soft cloth. It is not safe to put this gemstone in an ultrasonic cleaner.
Selenite will cleanse rhodochrosite, as will ruby. Be very cautious with this stone; it is best to cleanse it with other crystals. Do not soak it in water.
This stone is very brittle and has an uneven fracture. This makes it very hard to cut into traditional shapes. Jewelry that has rhodochrosite, especially cut, should be handled with care and should not be knocked around or worn while doing active tasks.
We also have it available at our brick and mortar shop.
