Rhodochrosite
MnCO3
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Field of view: 7 mm
Photo by Matthias Reinhardt
Rhodochrosite is a manganese carbonate mineral. In its (rare) pure form, it is typically a rose-red color, but impure specimens can be shades of pink to pale brown. It streaks white, and its Mohs hardness varies between 3.5 and 4. Crystal twinning often is present. It is often confused with the manganese silicate, rhodonite, but is distinctly softer.
Its main use is as an ore of manganese which is a key component of low-cost stainless steel formulations and certain aluminium alloys. Quality banded specimens are often used for decorative stones and jewelry. Due to its being relatively soft, and having perfect cleavage, it is very difficult to cut, and therefore rarely found faceted in jewelry.
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