Rhodochrosite has been mined in Argentina since the 13th century, with its heritage dating back to the Inca civilization, who worked this vibrant pink gem into their silver creations. The oldest mines in the San Luis province of central Argentina produce Rhodochrosite, which is so fine that it is called "Inca Rose." Rhodochrosite forms in fractures and cavities of metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, often associated with silver deposits. It typically precipitates from ascending hydrothermal solutions, with repeated episodes of crystallization allowing it to build up in layers on the walls of the fracture. Rhodochrosite often appears alongside minerals like calcite, quartz, and galena, drawing attention for its rich pink-to-red hues attributed to its manganese content.
Rhodochrosite is Argentina's national stone, and specimens from Argentine caverns are considered the finest quality. However, it can be found globally, with notable deposits in the United States, Canada, Brazil, and South Africa.