mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace impurities of Titanium, Manganese, or Iron

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 25, 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: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in late-stage crystallization of granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of fibrous dumortierite-related minerals or charge transfer between Ti3+ and Ti4+ metal ions.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, as a gemstone for collectors, and in the metaphysical/holistic healing market. Industrially, it is used for high-purity silica products if available in large quantities.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and mostly occurs in massive form. When it contains rutile needles, it can display a star-shaped light effect known as asterism. It is often referred to as the 'Heart Stone'.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its pink hue and inability to be scratched by a steel knife (hardness). Found abundantly in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). Collectors should look for even color saturation and transparency.

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