mineral
Desert rose (gypsum rosette)
Gypsum, CaSO₄·2H₂O; rosette habit
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically pale tan to white, pearly or silky luster, translucent edges, and bladed crystal aggregates forming petal-like rosettes. Mohs hardness 2; perfect cleavage, monoclinic structure, and specific gravity about 2.3; scratches easily with a fingernail.
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Physical properties
Typically pale tan to white, pearly or silky luster, translucent edges, and bladed crystal aggregates forming petal-like rosettes. Mohs hardness 2; perfect cleavage, monoclinic structure, and specific gravity about 2.3; scratches easily with a fingernail.
Formation & geological history
Forms when groundwater evaporates in arid, sulfate-rich sediments, causing gypsum crystals to grow around sand grains. Most specimens are Quaternary to modern, commonly forming in desert playas and evaporite deposits.
Uses & applications
Primarily a collector and decorative specimen; gypsum is also used widely in plaster, drywall, cement, and soil amendment, though delicate rosettes are unsuitable for construction.
Geological facts
The sand trapped between crystal blades gives many desert roses their tan color and distinctive sculptural appearance. They are not true flowers, but evaporite mineral aggregates.
Field identification & locations
Common localities include Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico. Identify by the flower-like bladed form, very low hardness, and white powder or scratch produced by a fingernail; avoid water and abrasion.
