Large Madagascan Rhodonite Egg - 95mm, 850g

Locality - Madagascar 
Size – 95 x 71mm
Weight – 850g

This large rhodonite egg features rich, salmon pink tones with metallic black dendritic patterns throughout and a subtly sparkling effect on its surface. It is rather sizeable measuring over 90mm high and has been perfectly shaped and polished to a high lustre, making for a unique, natural home decor piece. Rhodonite is a considerably rare stone, and so this large egg is an excellent collectors piece. An intricate rosewood stand as shown will be provided with this egg.

Rhodonite is a pink to red manganese silicate often found with metallic black manganese oxide veins within it. Its name derives from the Greek 'rhodon', meaning 'rose', in reference to its colouration. It is usually found in massive form in metamorphic rocks and contains significant amounts of iron, magnesium and calcium. Well-formed, transparent crystals of rhodonite are especially rare, most not even exceeding 1g in weight, and are highly sought after by mineral collectors. The opaque variety is popular for use in beads, cabochons and decorative carvings. Sources of gem-quality rhodonite are found in Russia, Australia, Japan, Madagascar, Sweden, Brazil, Peru, New Jersey and in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, where it has been named their official state gemstone.