Rhodochrosite: The Stone of Compassion

Rhodochrosite is a pink to red mineral known for its striking color. Although not native to the Southwest United States, it has been acquired through trade and used by Native American tribes in the region primarily for ornamental and spiritual purposes. Rhodochrosite is believed to enhance love and passion, open the heart to new friendships, ease depression, and encourage a positive outlook. It is also used to balance blood pressure and stimulate circulation.

Rhodochrosite holds significant cultural and spiritual importance to the Inca civilization, which inhabited parts of modern-day Peru and Bolivia. In the Inca Empire, it was often crafted into intricate jewelry, amulets, and religious artifacts, symbolizing power and wealth and being reserved for the elite and religious leaders. Believed to possess healing properties, it was utilized in traditional Inca medicine.

The Incas associated rhodochrosite with the sun, a central deity in their religion, and believed it helped balance physical and emotional aspects, promoting well-being and emotional healing. Rhodochrosite was thought to have the power to open one's heart and connect them to the spiritual realm. It was used as a protective amulet to ward off negative energies and entities, symbolizing eternal life and spiritual protection in the journey beyond.