mineral

Strawberry Quartz and Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pink to reddish-pink with internal speckles, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), SG: 2.65

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pink to reddish-pink with internal speckles, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal: Trigonal, Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), SG: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Strawberry quartz gets its color from iron oxide or hematite inclusions trapped during the hydrothermal growth of quartz crystals, while Rose Quartz is colored by titanium, iron, or manganese.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry for beads, cabochons, and decorative carvings; also popular in metaphysical collections.

Geological facts

Strawberry Quartz is often confused with Rose Quartz, but it is unique because of the distinct inclusions that look like strawberry seeds. Much 'Strawberry Quartz' on the market is actually synthetic glass, though natural specimens exist in Russia and Kazakhstan.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for fine, reddish needle-like or flaky inclusions under magnification. Natural strawberry quartz will feel cold to the touch and scratch glass, unlike plastic or some glass imitations.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

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metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

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Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic

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mineral