mineral

Rose Quartz

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

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

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

Identified April 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in pegmatites, cooling slowly from silica-rich hydrothermal fluids or molten magma. Most specimens are millions of years old, originating in late-stage igneous crystallization.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (cabochons, beads), ornamental carvings, crystal healing collections, and as a decorative stone in landscaping.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystals and instead occurs as massive aggregates. The pink color is often attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink mineral similar to dumortierite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its pinkish hue, conchoidal fracture (curved glass-like breaks), and its ability to scratch glass. It is commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, Madagascar, and South Dakota.

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