mineral

Rose 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 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

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 through the crystallization of magma (specifically in pegmatites) or from hydrothermal veins. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of manganese, titanium, or iron, or fibrous mineral borosilicate.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for lapidary work including jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and home decor. It is also highly popular in the metaphysical community and used in some industrial glass manufacturing.

Geological facts

Unlike regular quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined external crystals; it is usually found in massive form. The first rose quartz beads were found in the area of Mesopotamia (now Iraq) dating back to 7000 BC.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue, waxy to vitreous luster, and lack of cleavage. It is commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). To differentiate from glass, check for natural internal inclusions and bubbles; quartz will not have perfectly round air bubbles.