gemstone
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Pale pink to rose-red, Luster: Vitreous/Waxy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Pale pink to rose-red, Luster: Vitreous/Waxy, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in late-stage crystallization of granitic pegmatites or hydrothermal veins; colors are attributed to trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry making, ornamental carvings, decorative figurines, and as a popular specimen for crystal collectors.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and usually occurs in massive crystal aggregates.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic hazy translucence and soft pink hue. Often found in Brazil, South Africa, and Madagascar. It can be distinguished from pink fluorite by its superior hardness (cannot be scratched by a steel blade).
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