mineral

Desert Rose

Gypsum rosette or Selenite (CaSO4·2H2O)

Hardness: 1.5-2 (Mohs); Color: Tan, sand-colored, or white; Luster: Pearly to earthy; Structure: Monoclinic crystal clusters in a rosette shape; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction (though obscured in rosette form).

Hardness: 1
Color: Tan, sand-colored, or white
Luster: Pearly to earthy

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms through the evaporation of brine in arid sandy conditions, where gypsum or barite crystals grow in circular plates around sand grains, trapping the sand inside the crystal structure.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as decorative specimens, in crystal healing practices, and for geological education.

Geological facts

Each 'petal' is a single crystal of gypsum or barite. These are common in the Sahara Desert and the Southwestern United States. They can sometimes contain thousands of grains of sand.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive rose-like circular blade patterns and sandy texture. It is very soft and can be scratched by a fingernail. It should be kept dry as it can slowly dissolve or degrade in water.