Radiating with soft to rich shades of pink, often interlaced with striking black veins or patches of manganese oxide, Rhodonite is a manganese silicate mineral prized for its distinctive and beautiful coloration. Its name originates from the Greek word "rhodon," meaning "rose," perfectly capturing its characteristic pink hues. While the pink can range from delicate pastel to a deep, almost red tone, the presence of black manganese dendrites creates unique and captivating patterns within the stone. Major deposits of Rhodonite are found in Russia (especially the Ural Mountains), Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Sweden, and the United States. With a hardness ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Rhodonite is moderately soft and requires careful handling, especially in jewelry intended for daily wear. Its luster is typically vitreous (glassy) to pearly, and it is usually translucent to opaque. Rhodonite has a history of appreciation, particularly in Russia, where it was used for elaborate carvings, inlays, and even for sarcophagi for royalty. It gained popularity in the West during the 19th century, becoming a favored material for ornamental objects and jewelry. Symbolically, Rhodonite is strongly associated with compassion, love (both self-love and love for others), emotional healing, and forgiveness. It is believed to nurture feelings of goodwill and reduce anxiety.