Rock Identifier
Pink corundum (likely synthetic or treated sapphire) (Corundum, Al₂O₃; pink coloration commonly from chromium or treatment) — gemstone
gemstone

Pink corundum (likely synthetic or treated sapphire)

Corundum, Al₂O₃; pink coloration commonly from chromium or treatment

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Very small, transparent-to-translucent pink, glassy/lustrous, faceted or rounded. Mohs hardness 9, trigonal crystal system, no cleavage, specific gravity about 4.0; the vivid uniform color and shape may indicate synthetic material or glass imitation.

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Physical properties

Very small, transparent-to-translucent pink, glassy/lustrous, faceted or rounded. Mohs hardness 9, trigonal crystal system, no cleavage, specific gravity about 4.0; the vivid uniform color and shape may indicate synthetic material or glass imitation.

Formation & geological history

Natural corundum forms in aluminum-rich, silica-poor metamorphic rocks and some igneous settings, generally during regional metamorphism; crystals range from Precambrian to younger ages. The image alone cannot establish natural origin.

Uses & applications

Used as sapphire in jewelry when quality is sufficient, and as an abrasive or laser material; synthetic corundum is common in industrial and laboratory applications.

Geological facts

Pink sapphire is corundum colored mainly by chromium, iron, or titanium; ruby is the red variety. A scratch test should not be performed on a valuable specimen.

Field identification & locations

Common natural sources include Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, Vietnam, and East Africa. Confirm identity with refractive index, hardness, magnification, and spectroscopy; appearance alone cannot exclude pink glass or synthetic corundum.