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: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 28, 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: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of magma in igneous pegmatites or in hydrothermal veins. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink mineral similar to dumortierite.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in lapidary work for cabochons, beads, and carvings. High-quality specimens are used in jewelry. Also widely used as a decorative stone in landscaping and crystal healing practices.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined external crystal faces. The largest deposits are found in Brazil, but it was also the official state mineral of South Dakota for many years.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue and lack of visible crystal faces (anhedral). Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). It will scratch glass easily.

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