mineral
Desert Rose
Gypsum rosette (CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite rosette (BaSO4)
Hardness: 2 on the Mohs scale (for gypsum), Color: Tan, brown, white, or reddish, Luster: Vitreous to pearly or earthy, Crystal structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect, Specific Gravity: 2.30 to 2.33
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2 on the Mohs scale (for gypsum), Color: Tan, brown, white, or reddish, Luster: Vitreous to pearly or earthy, Crystal structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect, Specific Gravity: 2.30 to 2.33
Formation & geological history
Formed in arid, sandy desert conditions through the evaporation of shallow, sulfate-rich saline basins. As water evaporates, the minerals precipitate out and grow into interlocking lens-shaped crystal clusters, often trapping sand grains within the crystal structure.
Uses & applications
Popular as a mineral specimen for educational purposes, interior decoration, and crystal collections due to its unique rosette habit.
Geological facts
Desert roses can also form from barite rather than gypsum, though gypsum is more common. They are sometimes called gypsum roses, sand roses, or baryte roses.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive petal-like or flower-like cluster formations. Commonly found in deserts worldwide, particularly in the Sahara Desert, Oklahoma (USA), Mexico, and Tunisia.
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