Rhodochrosite
Properties of rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite is a mineral species with a rather heterogeneous composition. The stone, composed essentially of manganese carbonate with the formula MnCO3, very often contains inclusions of iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, cobalt, and cadmium.
The color of rhodochrosite varies from pink to brown, pink to red to yellow. The stone belongs to the trigonal crystal system, has a white streak, a vitreous luster, and a density of 3.69. Rhodochrosite is a fairly brittle stone with a hardness of 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale.
Rhodochrosite is quite abundant in several countries around the world. The most notable deposits are found in Argentina, Peru, Mexico, the United States, France, Russia, Bulgaria, Gabon, and China.
History of rhodochrosite
The history of rhodochrosite is relatively recent, dating back only about 200 years. The stone wasn't discovered until the late 18th century, when it was known by the scientific name "Oxidized Manganese." Johann Friedrich Ludwig Hausmann named the stone rhodochrosite around 1813. The name's etymology comes from the Greek words "rhodon," meaning rose, and "chros," meaning color.
Besides its use in lithotherapy, rhodochrosite is primarily used for ornamental purposes. In jewelry, the stone is very delicate to cut due to its low hardness.
Properties of rhodochrosite
Lithotherapy attributes many benefits to rhodochrosite in the body. The calming properties of the stones help relieve migraine pain, stomach ulcers, and arthritis-related problems. It is also believed to regulate diabetes, detoxify the liver and kidneys, and soothe the nervous system. It is also said to enhance visual acuity and help treat certain mental illnesses such as dementia and Parkinson's disease.
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On a spiritual level, rhodochrosite is considered the stone of altruistic feelings and impulses. One of the stone's most striking characteristics is its unique gentleness, which helps to bring buried traumas and painful feelings to the surface. Once the hurt has been identified, it helps to dissipate it and gently heal the wounds and traumas suffered. Because of this characteristic, some people call rhodochrosite a stone of emotional release. A stone of positive action, rhodochrosite is particularly recommended for meditation practitioners due to its ability to dispel negative attitudes and thoughts.
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Regarding the chakras that rhodochrosite is best suited for, the solar plexus chakra particularly benefits from the stone's protective properties, as it envelops the chakra with a positive aura that is resistant to stress and negative energies. The heart chakra also benefits from rhodochrosite's calming power, which regulates feelings and emotions, preventing unnecessary excesses for both oneself and those around us.
Rhodochrosite is especially favorable for the signs of Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Capricorn, and Scorpio. It should be purified relatively frequently by immersing it in distilled water for a few hours. Recharging, on the other hand, is done by exposure to sunlight, ideally on a pile of quartz crystals to optimize its charge.
