Rhodochrosite - Freeform

Locality: Uchucchacua Mine, Oyón Province, Lima Department, Peru

Description: A one-of-a-kind freeform of banded Peruvian rhodochrosite, polished all over while keeping the stone's own irregular shape. Uchucchacua is a high-altitude silver mine in the Andes, near 4,500 m, whose manganese-rich veins carry rhodochrosite alongside silver minerals, deposited by hot fluids moving through limestone. Changes in that fluid over time laid down alternating bands of rose-red rhodochrosite and paler, more calcium-rich carbonate, and where layers grew around small cavities or stalactitic cores they formed the concentric, eye-like rings visible in this piece. The tan zones and patches of matrix are host rock and manganese-oxide staining caught between growth layers.

Rhodochrosite gets its colour from manganese. At Mohs 3.5–4 it is soft and heat- and acid-sensitive, so the polish is best kept clean with a soft dry cloth rather than cleaners. In tradition it is called the Inca Rose, and modern crystal lore treats it as a stone of love, compassion and self-acceptance tied to the heart chakra. These associations are traditional beliefs, not established properties.

Chemical Composition: MnCO₃

Quantity: 1pc
With this product, you will get the actual stone in the photograph.