Rock Identifier
Pink quartz (likely rose quartz) (Rose quartz; quartz, SiO₂) — mineral
mineral

Pink quartz (likely rose quartz)

Rose quartz; quartz, SiO₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Usually translucent pink with a vitreous luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The image appears to show a polished or tumbled piece, possibly inside plastic, so surface details are obscured.

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Physical properties

Usually translucent pink with a vitreous luster; Mohs hardness 7, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, hexagonal crystal structure, and specific gravity about 2.65. The image appears to show a polished or tumbled piece, possibly inside plastic, so surface details are obscured.

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, colored by trace elements and microscopic inclusions; most deposits are Precambrian to younger. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, South Africa, and the United States.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornamental objects, and inexpensive jewelry; polished pieces are popular among collectors and metaphysical retailers.

Geological facts

Rose quartz commonly occurs as massive material rather than well-formed crystals. Some transparent pink quartz varieties show asterism when cut as cabochons.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its consistent pink color, glassy luster, hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass, lack of cleavage, and conchoidal fracture; distinguish it from pink glass by testing hardness and examining bubbles or flow textures.