mineral

Strawberry Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite or Goethite inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: translucent to reddish-pink; Luster: vitreous; Crystal Structure: trigonal/hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs)
Color: translucent to reddish-pink
Luster: vitreous

Identified June 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: translucent to reddish-pink; Luster: vitreous; Crystal Structure: trigonal/hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or pegmatitic environments where quartz crystals grow with micro-inclusions of iron oxides like hematite, lepidocrocite, or goethite.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a collector's specimen due to its unique sparkling appearance.

Geological facts

Natural strawberry quartz is rare; most material on the market is either 'Cherry Quartz' (man-made glass) or Aventurine. True Strawberry Quartz has internal sparkling flecks called 'schiller'.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass) and the presence of tiny needle-like or plate-like red inclusions within the clear or pink quartz body.

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