Rhodochrosite Gemstone Beads
Rhodochrosite is a stunning stone, with its striking bands of rose-red to pink hues, is primarily composed of manganese carbonate. Mined mainly from the depths of Argentina, it is these geological conditions that accentuate its unique and vibrant patterns that make each bead a miniature work of art.
Facts: Rhodochrosite has a rich tapestry of history and lore. Revered by the ancient Inca civilization due to its powerful color, it was believed to be the blood of their former kings turned to stone. Today, it remains a symbol of compassion and love, and its captivating beauty continues to be cherished worldwide.
Metaphysical / Holistic: Rhodochrosite is renowned for its ability to draw love and passion into one's life. It is also thought to help soothe the heart, letting emotional wounds heal and rekindling an enthusiastic approach to the joyful adventures of life.
Rhodochrosite 3mm Cube Table Cut Bead - 15-16 Inch
Original price
$33.00
-
Original price
$33.00
Original price
$33.00
$33.00
-
$33.00
Rhodochrosite is a bubblegum pink to rose red stone, with occasional inclusions of creamy white and dark grey. A manganese carbonate material of th...
View full details
Original price
$33.00
-
Original price
$33.00
Original price
$33.00
$33.00
-
$33.00
Rhodochrosite 5mm Cube Table Cut Bead - 15-16 Inch - CLEARANCE
Original price
$61.00
-
Original price
$61.00
Original price
$61.00
$61.00
-
$61.00
Rhodochrosite is a bubblegum pink to rose red stone, with occasional inclusions of creamy white and dark grey. A manganese carbonate material of th...
View full details
Original price
$61.00
-
Original price
$61.00
Original price
$61.00
$61.00
-
$61.00
About this stone
Color
PinkRose RedRedBanded Pink-and-White
Origin
ArgentinaPeruSouth AfricaUSA
Mohs hardness
3.5–4
Treatment categories
NaturalStabilized
Industry-standard treatment
Some material is stabilized to handle bead drilling and protect surface
Mineral chemistry
Manganese carbonate (MnCO3)
Crystal system
Trigonal
Stone family
Carbonate
Common cuts
RoundFaceted Round
Common sizes
6mm8mm10mm
Care notes
Soft (Mohs 3.5–4) with perfect cleavage. Avoid ultrasonic, steam, acids; mild soap and soft cloth only.
Related stones
Rhodonite, Pink Opal, Calcite
Frequently asked questions
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Where does rhodochrosite come from?
The historical and ongoing center of supply for banded "Inca rose" rhodochrosite is the Capillitas mine in Catamarca province, northern Argentina, which has been mined since pre-Columbian times. Other commercial deposits exist in Peru, the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado, South Africa, and Mexico, but Argentine material defines the variety in the bead trade. Origin should be disclosed; ask before buying if it isn't specified. -
Is rhodochrosite dyed?
No — rhodochrosite is sold natural across Dakota's catalog. The rose-pink to raspberry-red color is intrinsic to the manganese carbonate chemistry, and the stone is rarely dyed because the natural color is already what designers want. Stabilization (resin impregnation) is sometimes applied to softer or fractured rough; if a strand has been stabilized, that should be disclosed. -
How durable is rhodochrosite for jewelry?
Mohs 3.5–4 — significantly softer than most jewelry-grade gemstones. Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are fine with reasonable care; rings are not recommended because the surface will not hold up to daily contact. Store rhodochrosite separately from harder beads to avoid scratching, and clean with a soft cloth and mild soap only — no ultrasonics, no steam, no acidic cleaners (rhodochrosite is a carbonate and reacts with acid). -
What's the difference between rhodochrosite and rhodonite?
They are different stones with similar names and overlapping pink palettes. Rhodochrosite is manganese carbonate (MnCO₃), Mohs 3.5–4, typically showing concentric pink-and-white banding. Rhodonite is manganese silicate, Mohs 5.5–6.5, typically showing pink with black manganese-oxide veining. Rhodonite is meaningfully harder and better-suited to daily wear; rhodochrosite carries the prized banding pattern but needs gentler handling. Mineral identity should be disclosed. -
What sizes and cuts does Dakota carry?
Our active rhodochrosite inventory centers on 6mm and 8mm rounds, with 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, and 10mm rounds also stocked. Round is the dominant cut; rondelle and faceted variants appear in select sizes. Full size and cut availability is filterable in the grid above; designers replenishing an existing design can confirm exact strand specifications on each listing.