Rhodonite has a distinct pink or rose-red color, although material containing black veins is more popular than a uniform pink. Massive rhodonite is usually opaque to translucent, and is carved, or cut as cabochons or beads. Transparent crystals are rare and fragile, but some have been cut for collectors.

Both crystals and massive material have been found in the Urals (Russia), Sweden, and Australia. Other localities for fine-grained rhodonite include Brazil, Mexico, the USA, Canada, Italy, India, Madagascar, South Africa, Japan, New Zealand, and England.

The name comes from rhodos, the Creek for "rose", referring to the distinct color.