It is a member of the dolomite group and is difficult to distinguish from dolomite except for the increased density in kutnohorite. Kutnohorite is named after it type locality which is near Kutna Hora in the Czech Republic.
Color is often pink or pinkish.
Luster is pearly to vitreous to dull. Transparency crystals are translucent. Cleavage is perfect in three directions forming rhombs. Fracture is conchoidal. Streak is white to pale pink.