Strawberry Quartz

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink to reddish with specks or streaks of red/orange/white; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Strawberry Quartz is a variety of quartz that gets its unique color and inclusions from trace elements, primarily Goethite or Hematite, that become entrapped within the quartz during its formation. It forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, often growing in cavities within igneous and metamorphic rocks. The exact geological age can vary greatly depending on the specific deposit, but it generally forms over millions of years as supersaturated silica solutions cool and crystallize.

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons, carvings) and for ornamental purposes due to its attractive color and unique inclusions. It is also collected by mineral enthusiasts.

The 'strawberry' appearance comes from the numerous tiny inclusions, which can resemble seeds in a strawberry. It is sometimes mistaken for Rose Quartz, but Strawberry Quartz typically has distinct inclusions and a more vibrant, often speckle-filled appearance. The intensity of the color and the pattern of the inclusions can vary greatly, making each piece unique.

In the field, it would be identified by its characteristic pink to reddish color with visible red or orange inclusions within what appears to be clear or milky quartz. Its hardness of 7 means it can scratch glass. Common locations include Russia, Kazakhstan, Brazil, and Mexico. For collectors, look for strong color saturation and interesting inclusion patterns. Be aware of synthetic or treated imitations; natural Strawberry Quartz will often show minor imperfections and variation in its inclusions.