The formation and general information of the mineral rhodochrosite are provided as a background for this paper.  Observations and comparisons of its physical and microscopic properties are included and featured in tables and figures.  The use of rhodochrosite as both a catalyst and precursor material for hydrocarbons are examined further.  While isolated, it is observed that rhodochrosite is a poor catalyst.  However, when used as an ingredient for a hydrocarbon catalyst, rhodochrosite is an effective material for the reduction of nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide pollutants.