mineral

Desert Rose (Barite Rose / Gypsum Rose)

Barium Sulfate (BaSO4) or Hydrous Calcium Sulfate (CaSO4%22H2O)

Hardness 2-3.5 on Mohs scale; tan, beige, brownish-orange, or sandy yellow color; pearly to earthy luster; monoclinic/orthorhombic rosette-like cluster habit; perfect cleavage in base minerals; specific gravity 2.3-4.5 depending on composition.

Identified July 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in arid, sandy desert environments through the evaporation of mineral-rich shallow water basins. As water evaporates, crystals of barite or gypsum trap sand grains within their growing lattice, creating rosette-shaped clusters.

Uses & applications

Popular as decorative mineral specimens, lapidary curiosities, and metaphysical display pieces.

Geological facts

The petal-like formations are caused by bladed crystals growing outward from a central point, trapping surrounding sand grains inside. Desert roses are famous in regions like Oklahoma (where the barite rose is the official state rock) and the Sahara Desert.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive flower-like or rose petal cluster appearance made of sand-embedded crystals. Commonly found in desert regions including North Africa, Oklahoma, Texas, and Mexico. Collectors should avoid soaking gypsum roses in water as they can soften or degrade.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)

FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)

mineral

Schist

Metamorphic

Septarian Pebble

Septarian nodule / Concretion

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary