Last Updated on February 27, 2022
Rhodonite and rhodochrosite are both minerals that are often confused with each other. They have similar properties, but rhodonite is a manganese silicate, while rhodochrosite is a manganese carbonate. Rhodonite has a rosy pink to bright red color with black veins, while rhodochrosite can be any shade of pink to red and can even have gray in it.
Both minerals are used in jewelry, and can be found in many different locations.
To learn more about the differences between rhodonite and rhodochrosite, check out the answers below:
- Rhodochrosite vs. Rhodonite benefits?
- Why is rhodonite so expensive?
- Why is rhodochrosite so expensive?
- How can you tell if rhodonite is real?
Rhodonite vs. Rhodochrosite
These minerals are often mistaken for each other, but there are a few key ways to tell them apart. Rhodonite is usually found in metamorphic rocks, while rhodochrosite is typically found in hydrothermal veins.
Additionally, the colors of these two minerals vary quite a bit – rhodonite can be rosy pink to bright red. At the same time, rhodochrosite is typically a shade of pink, red and some are even grayish.
The structure and banding of these minerals also differ: rhodonite has a crystalline structure with black inclusions that can resemble veins running through the stone, whereas rhodochrosite often has distinct white or grey bands along the surface that appears to be parallel.
Rhodonite and rhodochrosite are both translucent, but some can appear transparent. Both minerals also have vitreous to pearly luster.
The Mohs scale of hardness is another way to tell these two minerals apart – rhodonite has a higher hardness (ranges from between 5.5 to 6), while rhodochrosite is a bit softer (about 3.5 to 4).
Rhodonite is widely found in Russia, while rhodochrosite can be found in Argentina, South America and Japan.
Rhodonite vs. Rhodochrosite Benefits
Rhodonite and rhodochrosite are two different minerals, but they have similar properties. They both contain manganese which gives them their color, and some believed it to be healing stones that can help with chakras and energy.
Rhodonite
Associated with the heart chakra, rhodonite is said to help with emotional healing, calming and stress relief. It also helps in improving relationships as it enhances communication and understanding.
Rhodonite also helps in boosting self-love and compassion and said to help open the heart chakra and encourage positive energy flow. This can lead to a more fulfilling life as it improves all aspects, including personal relationships, career, and spiritual growth.
Rhodonite is also used as protection against negative energy. If you feel overwhelmed by stress or negative thoughts, rhodonite can help balance out these energies by encouraging you to focus on the positive aspects of your life.
Rhodonite is a great stone for those struggling with anxiety or depression. Rhodonite helps in calming and grounding the body to feel more balanced and in control of your emotions again.
Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite is said to nourish the heart chakra. This is a powerful stone for the harmony of physical and spiritual energies. The stone helps balance the emotions and bring a loving attitude back into awareness.
The stone unleashes the negative emotions and brings them to the surface for release. Rhodochrosite can help shift one’s perspective from fear to love, manifesting compassion and kindness in daily life.
Why Is Rhodonite So Expensive?
Rhodonite is a mineral that is not as common as other gemstones. It can only be found in specific locations, so the supply is limited. The demand for rhodonite has also increased in recent years, making it more expensive than ever before.
The price of rhodonite is also determined by its color and clarity. The lesser to no inclusion, the high price it commands. The reported cost per carat range is between $60 to $260.
Why Is Rhodochrosite So Expensive?
Rhodochrosite is a rare pink mineral found in very few places on Earth. It is prized for its beautiful color and unique crystal formations. Because of its rarity, high demand, and unique properties, rhodochrosite has become one of the most expensive minerals in the world. Some specimens have been known to sell for hundreds of dollars apiece.
The value of rhodochrosite depends on color and clarity. Rhodochrosite comes in a wide variety of colors, including pink, red, and orange. The most valuable specimens have orangey-red coloration with slight to no inclusions at around $430 per carat.
How Can You Tell If Rhodonite Is Real?
The best way to tell if a rhodonite gemstone is genuine is to look at its color. Rhodonite has a distinct pink hue, so it’s easy to spot if it’s not the right stone. The color must be consistent throughout the stone, not just on one side or another.
A genuine rhodonite must be clear in appearance with no presence of bubbles. The surface should also be smooth with a vitreous to pearly luster.
Lastly, check for imperfections. A natural rhodonite should have imperfections on the surface, even though they have been cut. If there are none present, it is likely a synthetic or man-made stone.
