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Rhodochrosite: Awaiting exploration
This gem is known by many names: manganese carbonate, Inca Rose and its common name rhodochrosite from the Greek word for rose-colored. When exploring through the Orma J. Smith Museum, I was attracted to this mineral’s lovely pink color, and the great variance between the present samples. While one sample was small enough to fit between one’s forefinger and thumb, another just a foot to the right was monolithic. Most instances of this mineral were round and smooth, but one hidden in the back was jagged and rough. Just upon the sight of this mineral, I wanted to learn more. When researching further, I found that I was not the only one. Rhodochrosite invites people to investigate and learn more of the world around them.
Cut rhodochrosite specimen from The Collector's Edge. https://collectorsedge.com/shop/minerals/rhodochrosite/rhodochrosite52881/
Silver’s Waste
Much of rhodochrosite’s history, or lack thereof, can be explained by the its frequent occurrence near silver. Though it was mined by the Incas, it was only officially discovered in the 18th century, two hundred years after their fall. Even then, rhodochrosite was cast away with the rest of the rubble: It was seen as waste. For this reason, much of today’s rhodochrosite mines are old abandoned silver mines, and the first action of such mines was to search through piles of rubble for abandoned rhodochrosite. Silver and rhodochrosite still combine today in jewelry, combining pale silver with pink rhodochrosite.
A rhodochrosite Cabochon set in a silver ring. https://www.amazon.ca/giacobbi-jewelry-rhodochrosite-ring-silver/dp/B07N9366B5
A Display Gem
Rhodochrosite’s many varying appearances are what make it sought after in displays. From deep right to light pink, pure in color or with spirals of white, in rare occasions, it will even appear orange. Because of this, collectors seek the gem. Museums, though, have an easier time. Mines like Colorado’s Sweethome mine are specimen mines: their main purpose is to provide specimens to museums, and only crystals that are broken or otherwise unsuitable for display are cut, cleaned and sold. In this way, rhodochrosite is present throughout the world, often stimulating curiosity from its perch behind glass.
By: Ryan Blau