igneous
Pegmatitic rose quartz with black tourmaline
Quartz (SiO₂) with schorl tourmaline (NaFe₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄), likely feldspar and mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, pale pink quartz with glassy to waxy luster and black, splintery tourmaline; quartz hardness 7, tourmaline 7–7.5 Mohs. Quartz lacks cleavage, while tourmaline has indistinct cleavage; the specimen is visibly pegmatitic.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, pale pink quartz with glassy to waxy luster and black, splintery tourmaline; quartz hardness 7, tourmaline 7–7.5 Mohs. Quartz lacks cleavage, while tourmaline has indistinct cleavage; the specimen is visibly pegmatitic.
Formation & geological history
Formed when volatile-rich granitic magma slowly crystallized in a pegmatite pocket, allowing exceptionally large crystals; commonly Precambrian to Mesozoic depending on locality. Pink color generally reflects trace iron, aluminum, or irradiation-related defects in quartz.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative and collectible specimen; rose quartz may be cut for ornaments, while tourmaline can be gem-quality, though this rough material is mainly valued for display.
Geological facts
The contrasting pink quartz and black schorl combination is a classic pegmatite association. Tourmaline is strongly piezoelectric and can develop electrical charges when heated or compressed.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by coarse interlocking crystals, pale pink translucent quartz, and black prismatic or granular tourmaline; common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, and the United States. A hand lens can reveal tourmaline’s striated prism faces.
