mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace impurities of titanium, iron, or manganese

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale pink to rose red
Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)

Identified March 28, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glass-like); Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in pegmatites, high-temperature hydrothermal veins, and igneous rocks through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich fluids. It does not typically form well-defined crystal faces, usually appearing in massive crystalline form.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons, carvings), decorative sculptures, crystal healing/metaphysical practices, and as a low-cost ornamental stone in landscaping or home decor.

Geological facts

Unlike other quartz varieties, Rose Quartz rarely forms large individual crystals; it is almost always found in massive form. The pink color is often caused by microscopic inclusions of fibrous mineral related to dumortierite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic pink hue, high hardness (will scratch glass), and lack of cleavage. Common locations include Brazil, South Africa, India, and the United States (South Dakota and Maine). For collectors, look for deep color saturation and translucency.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

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

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral