mineral

Desert Rose (Gypsum Rose)

Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate) - CaSO4·2H2O

Hardness: 1.5 - 2.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, sandy brown, or peach; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (rosette habit); Cleavage: Perfect in one direction; Specific gravity: 2.3

Hardness: 1
Color: Tan, sandy brown, or peach
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in arid, sandy environments through the evaporation of salt-rich water basins. The gypsum crystals grow as flat plates, incorporating sand grains from the surrounding environment into their structure. They are typically found in Holocene to Pleistocene deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as decorative display specimens for mineral collectors, metaphysical 'healing' crystals, and jewelry (though fragile). In bulk form, gypsum is used in industrial drywall and plaster production.

Geological facts

The 'petals' of the desert rose are individual crystals of gypsum or barite. They appear to blossom like a rose because of the way they intersect at angles due to environmental constraints during crystal growth. They are also known as Sand Roses or Selenite Roses.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive rose-like cluster formation, soft texture (can be scratched by a fingernail), and sandy feel. Common locations include the Sahara Desert (Algeria/Tunisia), Mexico, and the Southwestern United States (Arizona/New Mexico).

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