mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to rose-red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pink to rose-red
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to rose-red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in magmatic pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids. Usually found in massive form rather than well-defined crystals. Geological age varies by deposit, often hundreds of millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry (cabs and beads), ornamental carvings, crystal healing practices, and as a decorative stone in interior design.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, Rose Quartz rarely forms distinct crystal faces and is mostly found in massive crystalline blocks. Its pink color was traditionally thought to be caused by titanium, but recent studies suggest fibrous inclusions of a borosilicate mineral similar to dumortierite may be the cause.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its characteristic pink hue, high hardness (it will scratch glass), and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota).

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