Rhodochrosite

This small cluster of classic, gem quality facetable scalenohedral tooth-like Rhodochrosite crystals is from arguably the world's greatest manganese deposit: N'Chwaning mines. Not only does this crystallized Rhodochrosite have the most amazing rich raspberry red colour, but it displays a stunning translucency meaning that it lights up with an internal 'fire' when backlit, creating a more strawberry red colour. It seems remarkable that a grey metal (manganese) could be responsible for such a beautiful mineral. At least six individual crystals are alligned parallel with scalenohedral terminations, the longest being 1.8 cm in length. There are tiny 'mouse bite' nibbles around the termination, but this remains a wonder of the mineralogical world. Most of these gemmy scalenohedral Rhodochrosite crystals coming from N'Chwaning I mine in the 1970s. Look carefully at our photo as this specimen image would not look out of place in a publication on fine minerals.

Unknown Owner

Product details

Species

Rhodochrosite

SizeThumbnail

Dimensions1.2 x 0.9 x 1.8 cm

Locality

South Africa, Northern Cape, N'Chwaning Mines

Added on06/14/2025

Comments

Known provenance

Unknown date