mineral

Desert Rose

Gypsum (variety Selenite) or Baryte, CaSO4 · 2H2O

Hardness: 2.0 (Gypsum) or 3.0-3.5 (Barite); Color: Tan to reddish-brown; Luster: Pearly to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Blades resemble flower petals; Very brittle and contains sand inclusions.

Hardness: 2
Color: Tan to reddish-brown
Luster: Pearly to earthy

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in arid, sandy environments through the evaporation of salt-rich water cycles. The crystals grow in the spaces between sand grains, trapping the sand within the crystal structure as they expand.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for mineral collecting, decorative display, and metaphysical practices. Gypsum is used in plaster and drywall, though desert rose specifically is a specimen variety.

Geological facts

The 'petals' are actually flattened crystals that follow the mineral's cleavage planes. They are most commonly found in the Sahara Desert and it is considered a symbol of the 'inner truth' in some cultures.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique rose-like blade configuration and sandy texture. Commonly found in desert regions of Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Mexico, and the USA (Oklahoma). To test, gypsum can be scratched with a fingernail.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust

Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

mineral

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock