mineral

Desert Rose

Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite (BaSO4) rosette

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2 (Gypsum) or 3-3.5 (Barite); Color: Sandy tan, beige, or white; Luster: Pearly to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good; Specific Gravity: 2.3

Hardness: 2 (Gypsum) or 3-3
Color: Sandy tan, beige, or white
Luster: Pearly to earthy

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2 (Gypsum) or 3-3.5 (Barite); Color: Sandy tan, beige, or white; Luster: Pearly to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Good; Specific Gravity: 2.3

Formation & geological history

Formed in arid sandy conditions through the evaporation of salt-rich water over centuries. They are found in dry basins or sabkhas where shallow groundwater fluctuates and deposits sulfates around sand grains.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as decorative specimens for mineral collectors, metaphysical practices, and occasionally in small jewelry items or rock gardens.

Geological facts

The 'petals' are actually flattened crystals that have incorporated sand grains into their structure. The largest desert rose on record found in Oklahoma weighed over 450 pounds.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive rose-like cluster of flattened blades and sandy texture. Commonly found in North Africa (Sahara), Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and the United States (notably Oklahoma, where it is the state rock).