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: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

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

Identified March 15, 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

Formed in high-temperature environments, most commonly in pegmatites (coarse-grained igneous rocks) or hydrothermal veins. Age varies by location, often associated with Precambrian or Paleozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for lapidary work including jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and home decor. It is also highly popular in gemstone collecting and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz that form large, well-defined crystals, rose quartz is almost always found in massive form. The pink color is often attributed to microscopic inclusions of a pink fibrous mineral similar to dumortierite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive pink color, 7/10 hardness (scratches glass), and lack of cleavage planes. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA.

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