Rhodochrosite is rare and finding a great crystal specimen may be challenging especially if you’re searching for the deep red translucent variety. There are only a few mining locations around the world, however this color and clarity of Rhodochrosite can only be found in the Sweet Home Mine located near Alma, Colorado. Rhodochrosite is the Colorado State Mineral. It is one of the premier Colorado Gemstones.
One of our customers acquired several of these crystals many years ago and we faceted a few into various shape gemstones. We’re offering one as a loose gem suitable for setting in jewelry or simply as a collector’s piece. It measures 11.1 x 7.7mm and weighs 3.76 carats. It’s a gorgeous gem, unique in so many ways.
Around the year 2005, we were able to purchase a nickel size crystal specimen for around $40. Today those pieces cost thousands of dollars. The Sweet Home Mine has been closed for many years, so we expect the value of this material to continue to increase over time due simply to supply and demand economics. Additional detailed information about Rhodochrosite is available at the following website: https://www.mindat.org/min-3406.html.
Robert Michael Gems – Specializing in Colorado Gemstones®. Colorado Gemstones® is a registered trademark of Robert Michael Gems.
