Rhodonite Stone

History of Rhodonite Stone

In ancient times, rhodonite stone had a dual function. On the one hand, it was a symbol of affection. Rhodonite was offered as a gift to express one’s friendship. On the other, Greeks and Romans regarded rhodonite as a protective object. During their travels, they wore it as an amulet to protect themselves from possible attacks by robbers. Moreover, according to works dating back to the Renaissance, this mineral was already considered to have beneficial effects. Rhodonite stone was known for offering joy, intelligence and memory. Its use allows one to preserve their dignity.

In Russia, where it was considered a semiprecious stone, it is particularly popular. Craftsmen developed a mosaic technique that consisted of placing rhodonite on various objects and jewels. Particularly appreciated, rhodonite stone was used as decoration and art. Even today, in Russian museums and in the Palace of St. Petersburg, we can admire columns, obelisks, vases, cauldrons, statuettes and cups decorated with rhodonite.

This semi-precious stone also served as a decorative material for larger objects. Tsar Alexander II, emperor from 1855 to 1881 and father of sixteen children born to different women, had his wife Maria Alexandrovna’s tomb entirely built in rhodonite. To make this exceptional tomb, a single block of rhodonite weighing 49 tons was used, and sixteen years were spent finalising the sarcophagus, which was fully hand-polished. It was not until 1906 that the completed seven-ton tomb finally returned to St. Petersburg Cathedral.

Origin and Composition of Rhodonite Stone

The name rhodonite comes from the Greek ‘rhodon’ meaning pink. Rhodonite can have other names such as buslamite, cummingtonite, hermannite, hydropite, kapnikite, mangan amphibol, manganolite, pink manganese, or paisbergite, among others. Rhodonite (whose chemical formula is MnSiO3) is a silicate from the pyroxenoid family. While this mineral is primarily composed of manganese and silicon, it may also contain iron, magnesium and calcium.

This stone can take a variety of shapes. Rhodonite forms either as a prism or as a tablet. In both cases, the crystals that make up the stone display irregularities. This is why its lattice system is triclinic. Rhodonite is rather red, with different hues depending on the stone. It can sometimes feature a dark red glow. This mineral can be translucent, but it is rarely transparent due to its slightly opaque glow.

Rhodonite forms either metasomatically, within metamorphic rocks, or inside hydrothermal veins (and can be cleaned with water). Rhodonite is obtained through the extraction of manganese ores. However, it is a stone that is rarely found in its purest form. The majority of the time, it is accompanied by other minerals. For example, in the United States, depending on the region, it may be combined with calcite and franklinite or alternatively, galaxite and magnetite. At Broken Hill, Australia, it is combined with galene and spessartine.

In addition, each corner of the globe contains a specific variety. For example, fowlerite, a variety that is rich in calcium and zinc is found in the southern states of the USA. Chinese variety ‘hsihutsunite’ is known for its high calcium content. Rhodonite is found on every continent: Brazil, Russia, Sweden, Taiwan… It is even extracted in France. Rhodonite is found in the Vosges, Haute-Garonne, Ariège and the Hautes-Pyrénées.

Litho Therapeutic Properties of Rhodonite Stone

Rhodonite Stone’s Mental Benefits

Rhodonite is widely used in litho therapy for several reasons. Psychologically and spiritually, it has many benefits, especially in case of excessive fears and for romance.

For the more nervous, rhodonite is recommended for reducing anxiety. It can be of great help during exam periods and in case of emotional overload. Thanks to its calming effect, rhodonite is particularly useful for adolescents who are familiar with these kinds of difficulties. Adolescence is a period of upheaval. In order to face life’s changes and uncertainties with calm (the first heartbreak, discomfort, arguments with relatives…), we need courage and endurance. Rhodonite is therefore a capable ally. During this period full of hardship, rhodonite also stimulates learning and manages excess stress.

In addition, rhodonite is a stone linked to the heart’s energy. It is therefore very popular with couples. Indeed, it improves relationships, builds trust and brings peace. Rhodonite reduces any possible jealousy from your partner. Thanks to its protective role, it brings compassion and sweetness. By opening the mind of its wearer, it fosters loving relationships. Rhodonite is perfect if you want to foster positive energies in your relationship, to help you to find true love or if you want to strengthen bonds with your soul mate.

Restorative, rhodonite also helps one to overcome any past emotional trauma whether wounds of the soul or the body. As it helps one to understand that revenge is a self-destructive emotion, rhodonite promotes forgiveness. It helps to liberate grudges and angers of the past, whether internalised as a result of heartbreak, indignities or provocations. In short, rhodonite helps one to resolve conflicts, heal wounds and communicate constructively so that you can overcome relational dead ends. In terms of energy, rhodonite corresponds to water and the sun.

Rhodonite Stone’s Physical Benefits

Physically, rhodonite’s benefits are numerous. This stone stimulates the body and strengthens the immune system. Acquiring a rhodonite stone is therefore an effective way to prevent viruses and diseases.

In addition, as mentioned previously, rhodonite reduces stress by regulating the heart rate. As such, rhodonite is the perfect stone for individuals who are subjected to forms of stress and the resulting physical consequences (muscle tension, skin reactions, digestive problems…).

Finally, rhodonite is strongly recommended for its action on insect bites as well as on joint tensions.