mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese

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

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

Identified March 19, 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: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, typically crystallized from cooling magma as the last part of a granitic melt. Found in rocks dating from various geological eras, notably Precambrian to Mesozoic.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in lapidary work for jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, crystal healing, and as a decorative stone in interior design.

Geological facts

Unlike clear quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and is usually found in massive chunks. Some specimens exhibit asterism (a six-rayed star effect) when cut into spheres or cabochons due to microscopic rutile inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue, glassy luster, and the fact that it can scratch glass but cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota).

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