mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in pegmatites (igneous) through hydrothermal crystallization from molten magma; also found in hydrothermal veins. Specimens can range from thousands to millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, meditation stones, and metaphysical practices. Also used in industrial electronics for its piezoelectric properties in some cases.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms large, well-defined crystals; it is usually found in massive form. The pink color can fade if exposed to prolonged sunlight.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct pink translucent color and lack of cleavage (breaks like glass). Commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota and Maine).
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