Rhodochrosite

Item Description

The Capillitas District in Argentina is famous for its beautiful and distinctive Rhodochrosites, which are often found in stalactitic formations, which are then sliced and polished to reveal the beautiful colors and patterns within. These stones have been known for decades, and there is no place in the world that produces anything close to the quantity or quality of these famous gems. Now it's important to note that they are almost never gem quality, only translucent, and they are quite different from Rhodos from the Sweet Home Mine or the N'Chwaning Mines in South Africa, but they have a distinctive beauty that is captivating. This "Oval Cabochon" cut gem has rich red, light pink and almost white banding lines which show the various layers of stalactitic growth from which it formed. The red/pink areas of the stone GLOW with intense color when backlit. A gorgeous example of these iconic Rhodochrosites.