mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide with trace inclusions (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed at high temperatures in magmatic pegmatites (igneous) or in hydrothermal veins. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink mineral similar to dumortierite.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, sphere making, and spiritual/metaphysical collecting. Also used as a minor source of silica for industrial glass making.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and is almost always found in massive form. It is often associated with the concept of 'unconditional love' in various cultures.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its translucent pink hue and glassy, shell-like (conchoidal) fracture surfaces. Commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota). It is harder than glass, which can help distinguish it from pink glass imitations.

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