A comprehensive review of the species with attention to those characteristics of primary concern to the collector. Detailed discussions include crystal habits, twins and assemblages, color diversity, associates and over 100 localities. All topics are illustrated with 380 photos from the author's extensive collection. Great care has been taken to include illustrations on the same page as discussions in so far as possible. Overviews of Rhodochrosite's geologic settings, crystallography, and mine histories are also presented with less detail. Advice regarding specimen evaluation, aesthetics, mounting and display are provided based on the author's 40 years of collecting experience.