Rose Quartz

Physical Properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: pale pink to rose red; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & Geological History

Forms in magmatic pegmatites as cooling silicate-rich fluids crystallize. It can also form in hydrothermal veins. Most specimens date from hundreds of millions to over a billion years old.

Uses & Applications

Used extensively in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, crystal healing practices, and as collector specimens.

Geological Facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and usually occurs in massive form. The pink color is often attributed to microscopic inclusions of a pink fibrous mineral related to dumortierite.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by its characteristic pink hue and lack of crystal faces. Found commonly in Brazil, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota). It will scratch glass but cannot be scratched by a steel knife.

Identified on: 5/1/2026

Mode: Standard