What's That Rock?Rhodonite
A pink to rose manganese silicate, usually threaded with black manganese oxide veins.
How to identify Rhodonite
- Pink with black web-like veins
- Harder than rhodochrosite and does not fizz in vinegar or mild acid
- Heavy for its size
Often confused with
- Rhodochrosite
- Pink jasper
- Pink dyed stones
Is Rhodonite valuable?
Inexpensive.
Typical retail prices
Tumbled stone$2–6each
Rough$10–40per pound
Cut gemstone$1–8per carat
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Color: even, strong pink with thin black veining is best; heavy black matrix lowers the price
- Cut: polished cabochons, beads and carvings cost more than tumbles
- Origin: Russian, Australian and Brazilian material is sold at modest prices
- Gem crystals are very rare and costly, mostly for collectors
Uses
- Beads, cabochons, carvings
Care
Safe to wash.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026