Rose coloured gemstones have always fascinated the collectors. Not because of their pristine beauty, but because of their enticing compatibility with the human nature! Rhodochrosite is one an attractive rose-coloured gemstone, launched into the market in the 1940s. Since then, it has remained a top pink gemstone competing with the like of sapphires, moonstone, rubies and amethyst.
Let us dig deeper into the world of Rhodochrosite Gemstone with few interesting facts.
Fact 1: One of the softest gemstones
Pink Rhodochrosite ranks a dismal rating of 4.0 on the Mohs Hardness scale. It is preferred over other gemstones owing to its talc-like surface which does not irritate the human skin despite years of use. Though it is hard to manage owing to the fact that it is easily scratched by harder items, Rhodochrosite remains a great fashion accessory, especially in Middle East and English couture.
Fact 2: Multi-coloured gemstone
Rhodochrosite is often placed under the category of pink coloured gemstones. Pure varieties display more shades. The pink shade only appears when it is refined under heat treatment. The higher the refinement, softer will be its shade. Lighter pink shade of Rhodochrosite fetches higher price than other varieties and hence produced in limited volumes.
Fact 3: Rhodochrosite means Rose crystal
Rhodochrosite exudes similar brilliance as that of the rhodolite. Rhodolite garnet and Rhodochrosite derive their name from the same Greek origin- Rhodos meaning “Rose coloured”. The manganese carbonate mineral is similar in crystalline structure as that of an agate or malachite. In nature, the transparent clear Rhodochrosite is common. Lustrous varieties are artificially treated in laboratories.
Fact 4: Veins pattern due to impurities
The pink Rhodochrosite Gemstone exhibits a peculiar leafy vein structure under its surface. This delicate pattern is associated with silver, copper and lead sulphide impurities that got blocked within the crystalline structure during various stages of rock formation. Owing to its intricate leafy crystalline pattern, it was declared the State Mineral of Colorado in the year 2002.
Fact 5: Always cut as cabochons
Rhodochrosite is cut exclusively as cabochons. Beads and carved specimens are rare owing to the heavy weight. Transparent varieties are rare and this makes them an ideal item for cabochons. Scarlet Rhodochrosite beads is the rarest specimen and hence attracts the maximum price in the segment.
Fact 6: Biggest producers
The stone comes exclusively from Latin American region. Argentina enjoys the tag of being the largest source of the gemstone followed by Chile, Mexico, Peru, Brazil and Venezuela. Russia, China and Canada also contribute a respectable volume of the gemstone into the commercial market. Stone cutting business is largely confined to Indian and South African artisans.
Fact 7: Heart Stone
Gemology experts retain the pink coloured gemstone as a love stone. Why? Because its clear translucent appeal symbolizes the fertility chakra. It improves the coordination between heart and mind. Apart from Sexual Chakra, it relates to peace, tranquillity, judgement, fortune and psychic healing. Larger gemstone weighing more than 5 carats is recommended to keep heart related ailments at bay.
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