mineral

Rose Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) - SiO2

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale pink to rose red
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma in pegmatites. The pink hue is caused by trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, as well as fibrous inclusions of a borosilicate mineral similar to dumortierite.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, crystal healing practices, and as a popular rough or polished specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined external crystal faces and typically occurs in massive form. It is the state mineral of South Dakota and represents unconditional love in various cultural traditions.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic cloudy pink translucency, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass. Major deposits are found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota and Maine).