Rock Identifier
Desert Rose (Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite (BaSO4) inclusions in sand) — mineral
mineral

Desert Rose

Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite (BaSO4) inclusions in sand

Hardness: 2.0 (Gypsum variant) or 3.0-3.5 (Barite variant). Color: Tan, sandy, cream, or reddish-brown. Luster: Pearly to earthy. Crystal structure: Monoclinic or Orthorhombic bladed clusters. Specific gravity: 2.3 for Gypsum, 4.5 for Barite.

Hardness
2
Color
Tan, sandy, cream, or reddish-brown
Luster
Pearly to earthy
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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0 (Gypsum variant) or 3.0-3.5 (Barite variant). Color: Tan, sandy, cream, or reddish-brown. Luster: Pearly to earthy. Crystal structure: Monoclinic or Orthorhombic bladed clusters. Specific gravity: 2.3 for Gypsum, 4.5 for Barite.

Formation & geological history

Formed in arid sandy conditions through the evaporation of salt-rich water basins. As water evaporates, crystals grow in the spaces between sand grains, trapping the sand and forming flattened 'petal' shapes. They are typically found in Quaternary to modern desert environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a mineral specimen for collectors, in metaphysical practices, and occasionally in decorative landscaping or as an educational geological tool.

Geological facts

Also known as the Sand Rose, Selenite Rose, or Gypsum Rose. The largest specimen ever found was in Oklahoma, measuring 17 inches across and 10 inches high, weighing 125 pounds.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'flower-like' arrangement of bladed crystals encrusted with sand. Common locations include the Sahara Desert (Algeria/Tunisia), Mexico (Chihuahua), and the USA (Oklahoma and Arizona). Collectors should look for specimens with well-defined petals and minimal breakage.

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