mineral

Rose Quartz

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide - SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

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

Identified March 14, 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: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Usually forms in magmatic pegmatites through the slow cooling of silica-rich fluids. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of pink fibrous minerals like dumortierite or iron/manganese impurities.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, crystal healing practices, and as a decorative stone in interior design.

Geological facts

Rose quartz is known as the 'Love Stone.' Unlike other types of quartz, it rarely forms distinct large crystals; it is usually found in massive, chunky habits. It can occasionally exhibit asterism (a star effect) when inclusions of rutile are present.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive pale pink color and hardness (scratching glass). Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). In the field, look for milky to translucent pink masses in pegmatite veins.