metamorphic
Dyed Pink Quartzite
Tumbled and Dyed Quartzite (SiO2 with dye treatment)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Hot pink (unnatural), Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline), Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7. It shows a granular texture typical of quartzite with dye concentrated in the fractures.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Hot pink (unnatural), Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline), Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7. It shows a granular texture typical of quartzite with dye concentrated in the fractures.
Formation & geological history
Originally formed from quartz sandstone undergoing intense heat and pressure (metamorphism). This specific specimen has been tumbled to a rounded shape and treated with artificial pink dye to enhance its color for decorative purposes.
Uses & applications
Decorative stones, aquarium gravel, low-cost jewelry, and chakra/healing stone collections.
Geological facts
Quartzite is one of the most durable rocks found at Earth's surface. While natural pink quartzite exists (Rose Quartzite), vivid 'hot pink' or 'magenta' varieties like this one are almost always the result of artificial dyeing.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for concentrations of color in the cracks and fissures of the stone. Natural colors are more uniform or follow mineral veins; dye pools in the surface imperfections and granulations.
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