Rhodochrosite
From Antique Jewelry University
Gemological information
| Gemological Information for Rhodochrosite | |
|---|---|
| Color | Pink with Bands of White, Gray or Brown, Transparent Pink and Red |
| Crystal Structure | Hexagonal (trigonal) |
| Refractive Index | 1.597 to 1.817 |
| Durability | Poor |
| Hardness | 3.5 to 4.5 |
| Similar Stones | Rhodonite, Unakite and Hydrogrossular |
| Treatments | None |
| Country of Origin | Australia, US, South Africa, Argentina, Germany, Spain and Romania |
| Rhodochrosite Care | |
| Ultrasonic Cleaning | Never |
| Steam Cleaning | Never |
| Warm Soapy Water | Safe |
| Chemical Attack | Effervesces to Hydrochloric Acid |
| Light Sensitivity | Stable |
| Heat Sensitivity | Turns Dark and Breaks with a Jeweler's Torch |
Sources
Gem Reference Guide, Los Angeles: Gemological Institute of America, 1988. Pp. 199-200.
Schumann, Walter. Gemstones of the World, New York: Sterling Publishing, Co., 1977. Pp. 168.