metamorphic
Pink quartzite or rose-quartz-rich stone
Quartzite; predominantly SiO₂, possibly containing minor rose quartz and feldspar
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale pink, fine- to medium-grained, opaque, with a dull to slightly sugary luster and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs, and specific gravity is approximately 2.6–2.7. The rounded, uniformly shaped form indicates tumbling or polishing.
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Physical properties
Pale pink, fine- to medium-grained, opaque, with a dull to slightly sugary luster and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs, and specific gravity is approximately 2.6–2.7. The rounded, uniformly shaped form indicates tumbling or polishing.
Formation & geological history
Likely formed when quartz-rich sandstone recrystallized under heat and pressure, generally during regional metamorphism; its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph. Pink coloration may come from iron-bearing inclusions, feldspar, or microscopic dumortierite rather than pure rose quartz.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, lapidary material, tumbled specimen, and occasionally aggregate or ornamental stone. This small piece generally has modest collector value.
Geological facts
Quartzite is tougher and more resistant to weathering than sandstone because its quartz grains are tightly interlocked. The specimen’s texture appears granular rather than glassy, favoring quartzite over a single quartz crystal.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness, granular sugary texture, lack of visible cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife; it may scratch glass. Common sources include Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the United States.
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