mineral
Desert Rose
Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite (BaSO4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 2 for gypsum, white to tan color, pearly to vitreous luster, and distinct rosette crystal habits formed by lenticular crystals.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 2 for gypsum, white to tan color, pearly to vitreous luster, and distinct rosette crystal habits formed by lenticular crystals.
Formation & geological history
Formed in arid, sandy environments through the evaporation of shallow salt basins and subsequent crystallization.
Uses & applications
Popular mineral specimen for collectors, decorative display, and ornamental pieces.
Geological facts
Also known as sand roses, these formations trap sand grains within their crystal structure as they grow.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive flower-like cluster of flat crystal plates; commonly found in deserts worldwide such as the Sahara.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous