Description
Rhodochrosite, Natural, Faceted Round, 4mm
This price is for one strand 15 to 16 inches long
Rhodochrosite is a striking manganese carbonate mineral celebrated for its intense pink and deep red hues. Named from the Greek words for "rose-colored," It occurs in two very distinct forms depending on how it was created geologically.
The Banded Variety: Most commonly found as stalactitic or massive formations in sedimentary or hydrothermal layers. When sliced and polished into cabochons, it displays mesmerizing, wavy, concentric bands of alternating light pink, deep rose, and white.
The Crystal Variety: Highly sought-after by mineral collectors, it can form magnificent, translucent, deep red rhombohedral crystals. The sweet spot for these ultra-premium specimens is the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado.
From a practical jewelry-making and lapidary perspective, rhodochrosite requires a delicate touch. It is notably soft and easily damaged if handled roughly.
Rhodochrosite is the official state mineral of Colorado, designated in 2002. The story behind it is pretty neat: a group of high school students campaigned for it because the word "Colorado" originates from the Spanish word for "reddish," making the vivid red mineral a perfect fit.
Hardness is 3.5-4
This is a natural stone that has had no treatment other than cutting, drilling, and polishing.
The source of these beads is Argentina and they are cut, drilled and polished in China.
