mineral
Dyed tumbled quartz (likely quartzite or quartz crystal)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; translucent vivid pink-purple color from artificial dye, vitreous luster, massive/granular texture, and no obvious cleavage. The rounded shape is mechanically tumbled and polished; visible fractures may be dye-filled.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent vivid pink-purple color from artificial dye, vitreous luster, massive/granular texture, and no obvious cleavage. The rounded shape is mechanically tumbled and polished; visible fractures may be dye-filled.
Formation & geological history
Quartz formed in igneous or hydrothermal environments, commonly millions to billions of years old; the pink coloration and polishing are human-applied. If the base is quartzite, it formed by metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone.
Uses & applications
Used mainly as an inexpensive decorative or lapidary stone, souvenir, or craft material; not generally considered fine gemstone material. Common pieces sell for a few dollars.
Geological facts
Natural purple quartz is amethyst, while natural pink quartz is usually pale and cloudy; this saturated neon color strongly indicates dye treatment. Dye may concentrate in cracks and fade with prolonged sunlight or chemicals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy luster, quartz-like translucency, rounded polish, and hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass; inspect cracks for concentrated color and test inconspicuously for dye transfer. Common source material comes from Brazil, Madagascar, India, and commercial lapidary suppliers.
