- Rhodochrosite is composed of manganese carbonate. It can be found in South America, Canada and the United States, especially Colorado. This lovely gemstone is a deep rosy pink with white or cream bands. On the Mohs scale of hardness, it is rated a 3.5 to 4, which makes it a relatively soft stone that may easily scratch. Often cut into slices or spheres, rhodochrosite also lends itself well to being carved into figurines.
- Called the "Inca Rose" by the natives of the Andes mountains, rhodochrosite is said to contain the blood of great ancestral rulers, making it a powerful stone.
- In chakra healing practices, rhodochrosite is placed over the heart chakra to balance and stabilize the emotions. Placing a piece of this stone in each hand is said to give one a better sense of stability. If you suffer from low self-esteem, rhodochrosite is the stone for you. It also helps those who have eating disorders, drug or alcohol addictions, asthma, or suffer from stress, especially from trauma. It helps to detoxify the liver and bloodstream.
- Rhodochrosite has been used to attract love, deepen already existing ties, and help one communicate telepathically with loved ones and pets. It calms the emotions and heart. Taking a bath with rhodochrosite is said to de-stress and soothe the body. It can help with inner creativity to bring ideas to fruition.
- When going off to college, starting a new job or moving to a new neighborhood, wear or carry a piece of rhodochrosite with you to calm the emotions and dispense feelings of loneliness or anxiety. It can also be a helpful stone for adopted or foster children. It is also said to help a missing pet return home if a piece of rhodochrosite is placed in the animal's bed or sleeping area.
