mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous; 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

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-temperature magma chambers, typically within igneous pegmatites. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of pink fibrous minerals like dumortierite or traces of titanium and manganese.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in jewelry (beads, cabochons, carvings), decorative ornaments, and widely collected as a metaphysical or healing stone. In industry, it can be a source of silica but is usually too valuable as a specimen for that use.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined external crystal faces and is almost always found in massive form. It is the unofficial state mineral of South Dakota, where significant deposits are located.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue, glassy luster, and the fact that it cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). To collect, look for quartz veins in granite pegmatite outcrops.