Rhodochrosite has a stable crimson color, which is due to the presence of divalent manganese in its composition; the higher the calcium content, the paler the mineral, and the admixture of iron elements gives the stone a brownish or rusty hue.
Rhodochrosite is a collector's mineral. He is appreciated for his inimitable color. Some samples of this crystal in the international market of collectible materials are valued, often above gold.
The stones are characterized by banded structure. The color of the bands varies from dark to light pink with a scalloped pattern.
Minerals are pink, raspberry, brown with glass or pearl luster. There are crystals and colorless. Most of all appreciate the crimson-red species of rhodochrosite.
The ancient Incas were considered to be the blood of the ancient rulers, which turned into stone, and the mineral is therefore often called the Inca Rose.
Place of Birth. The most significant deposit is located in Argentina, near San Luis, where the rhodochrosite stalagmites discovered in the abandoned silver mines left by the Incas from the 13th century. In the jewelry business, the stone began to be used since 1950. Not so long ago, new mineral deposits were discovered: in the state of Colorado (USA) and in Capillitas, near Andalgala, and Catamarca in Argentina.
Application. The stone is used, as a rule, by large ore, as the beauty of the picture and expressiveness are manifested only in them. Rhodochrosite is used as an ornamental stone because of its extraordinary decorativeness. Vases, caskets, sometimes beads and cabochons are made from it. Rhodochrosite is often confused with rhodonite due to external similarities.
Manganese spar, as sometimes referred to as rhodochrosite, is a raw material for the production of ferromanganese. It is also used for padding for steel and cast iron smelting. The chemical industry is also widely using this mineral.
Therapeutic and magical properties of rhodochrosite
Medical properties. Folk doctors believe that rhodochrosite can remove from the body slags, cleanse the blood. Eastern physicians use rhodochrosite balls to perform general strengthening massage sessions. Cosmeticians are recommended to perform facial massage to increase the overall tone of the skin, improve blood circulation with small balls from this mineral. It is recommended that you take a few minutes to look at the rhodochrosite crystal to ensure that the eyes relax and prevent eye diseases.
Rhodochrosite affects the heart chakra.
Magical properties. The magic properties of rhodochrosite are known all over the world. This crystal is considered the embodiment of love, passion, thirst for knowledge, vital energy. In the east, rhodochrosite ornaments are worn as amulets to attract success from the opposite sex. At the present time, mystics are advised to make amulets of rhodochrosite that are able to protect against black magic and evil eyes, to protect the owner of the stone from outbursts of anger and negative energy. Rhodochrosite is suitable for those who were born under the zodiac signs of Libra and Gemini, which it feeds vital energy. The latter also helps him to look into himself and find harmony with himself and the world around him. He helps Libra in finding happiness in his personal life, in marriage.
Talismans and amulets. The talisman of rhodochrosite brings recognition, family happiness and success. Carved from this stone figurine of an animal can serve as a talisman, bringing prosperity, peace and peace to the house of its owner. It helps to protect the home from dark energy and envy.