mineral
Desert Rose
Baryte (BaSO4) or Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) with sand inclusions
Hardness: 2 (Gypsum) to 3.5 (Baryte). Color: Tan, brown, or cream. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic bladed clusters. Specific gravity: 2.3 for Gypsum, 4.5 for Baryte.
- Hardness
- 2 (Gypsum) to 3
- Color
- Tan, brown, or cream
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2 (Gypsum) to 3.5 (Baryte). Color: Tan, brown, or cream. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic bladed clusters. Specific gravity: 2.3 for Gypsum, 4.5 for Baryte.
Formation & geological history
Forms through evaporation in arid sandy conditions where mineral-rich water crystallizes around sand grains. Usually found in desert environments like the Sahara or Southwest US.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative collector's specimen and in metaphysical practices. Raw gypsum is used for plaster, but these bladed forms are for display.
Geological facts
These 'roses' are formed by hundreds of crystal blades interlocking. They are natural sculptures created by the wind and chemical evaporation over thousands of years.
Field identification & locations
Identified by their characteristic rose-like bladed structure and sandy texture. They are brittle and can be scratched with a fingernail if they are gypsum-based.
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metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
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