Rosy Rhodochrosite is, as you can see in the picture, a rosy pink colour composed of Manganese Carbonate which usually laced with white Calcite and/or black Manganese Oxide patterns. The layered patterns are distinct because they are so jagged. It is formed by liquids depositing from Stalactites onto Stalagmites creating towers of opaque banded beauty.

This unusual, fast-forming mineral is found throughout the Andes and right up the Rockies into Northern British Columbia. The most easily reached mines are the old worked out Silver mines of the Incas. As it is relatively soft (#4), it is easily damaged by hard knocks; so it is best suited for anything but rings or bracelets. It is also vulnerable to acids and heat, so it is not a good idea to take it into a hot tub or public swimming pools either.

We stock some pieces of Rhodochrosite, set in Sterling Silver, and we have some specimens as well. Feel free to drop in when you are in the area and see them for yourselves.