Rhodochrosite

specimen number:
9507120

location:
Capillitas, Andalgala, Catamarca, Argentina

description:
Beautiful deep red banded example of rhodochrosite, this cut and polished on one face. Note that this is not a slabbed, it is in end. The color is outstanding. Classic for this locality and species. The back side of the piece is actually crystallized rhodochrosite.

The Capillitas mining district in Catamarca, Argentina, is a rugged high-altitude epithermal deposit featuring mineralized veins cutting through granitic and volcanic rocks. Mining history here spans centuries, beginning with the Incas who extracted materials from the 13th to the 15th century, followed by later Spanish colonial and modern operations targeting copper, gold, silver, and manganese. The district is most world-famous among mineral collectors for producing magnificent banded stalactitic rhodochrosite, widely known as Inca Rose. Formed by seasonal mineral-rich water dripping within underground cavities, this distinctive material displays vibrant concentric layers of pink, rose, and red that are highly prized for ornamental carvings and fine mineral collections.

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