Hand-carved rhodonite cabochons in four formats: three round (21 and 23 mm diameters) and one square (23 × 22 mm).
Item details
| Mineral |
Rhodonite (manganese silicate, MnSiO₃) |
| Available formats |
R1 — round, Ø 21 × 7 mm
R2 — round, Ø 23 × 7 mm
R3 — round, Ø 23 × 9 mm
R4 — square, 23 × 22 × 8 mm |
| Shape and back |
Round or square, flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Coloration |
Intense pink with black manganese oxide veins |
| Hardness |
5.5–6.5 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting to protect the edges |
| Origin |
Material acquired from wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece type |
Available in 4 formats |
These specific cabochons
The rhodonite selected for this lot has a particularly balanced distribution of black veins: the manganese oxide dendrites form reticulations that contrast with the pink background without dominating it.
The three round formats offer different proportions: R1 (21 × 7 mm) is the most delicate, suitable for earrings or minimalist rings; R2 (23 × 7 mm) has a larger diameter with the same dome height; R3 (23 × 9 mm) has the largest volume and produces a more prominent cabochon.
What are the black veins in rhodonite?
The pink background of rhodonite is the pure mineral (manganese silicate, MnSiO₃).
What setting works for it?
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Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — a hardness of 5.5–6.5 Mohs requires side protection; a closed bezel is the most recommended setting for round pieces. The square works well with a straight four-sided bezel or a curved bezel that follows the vertices.
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Statement ring with silver setting — diameters 21–23 mm are ideal for a cocktail or statement ring; rhodonite is hard enough for occasional ring wear with good side protection.
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Wire wrap — an alternative for those who work with wire wrapping; round shapes are particularly easy to wrap with circular wire.
Rhodonite in lapidary tradition
Rhodonite was identified and named as a mineral species in 1819 by Christoph Friedrich Jasche, who found it in the Ural Mountains (Russia). The name comes from the Greek rhodon (ῥόδον), "rose."
In crystal tradition, rhodonite is associated with self-love and compassion — a stone that invites balancing strength (the black veins) and sweetness (the pink background).
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine rhodonite
Genuine rhodonite has an intense, characteristic pink color with black or dark brown manganese oxide veins.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the four formats?
R1 (round Ø 21 × 7 mm) is the smallest and most delicate, ideal for earrings or delicate rings.
Is rhodonite suitable for daily wear rings?
With adequate protection, yes. A hardness of 5.5–6.5 Mohs is sufficient for occasional ring wear if set with a closed bezel that protects the edges from side impacts.
Has it received any treatment?
No detectable treatment. The pink color comes from the mineral's native manganese, and the black veins are natural manganese oxides.
Why does each cabochon have a different vein pattern?
Manganese oxide veins form during the geological process and are unique to each rock fragment.
What are the exact dimensions, and is there any tolerance?
The indicated dimensions are for reference: Ø 21 × 7 mm (R1), Ø 23 × 7 mm (R2), Ø 23 × 9 mm (R3) and 23 × 22 × 8 mm (R4).
How do you care for rhodonite?
Clean with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and chemicals. Rhodonite has two perfect cleavage planes: a strong blow to the edge can cause a clean fracture. More details on jewelry care.
See also: all cabochons · lapidary collection · handmade rings.
