In its pure form (rare), it is typically a rose-red colour,[5] but it can also be shades of pink to pale brown.

[8] Rhodochrosite is formed by the oxidation of manganese ore, and is found in South Africa, China, and the Americas.

Rhodochrosite forms a complete solid solution series with iron carbonate (siderite).

Due to its softness and perfect cleavage it is rarely found faceted in jewellery and is also sought after by many collectors.

[10] Manganese carbonate is extremely destructive to the amalgamation process historically used in the concentration of silver ores, and were often discarded on the mine dump.