mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale pink to rose red
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy

Identified March 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-temperature silica-rich environments, typically in pegmatites (igneous) or hydrothermal veins. Its pink color is caused by trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, or microscopic mineral inclusions of dumortierite silicate.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, decorative sculptures, and as a popular semi-precious stone for metaphysical practitioners and mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Unlike most quartz varieties, rose quartz rarely forms large, distinct crystals; it is almost always found as a massive, cloudy chunk. In rare cases, needle-like inclusions can cause 'asterism,' where a star-shaped light pattern appears when polished into a sphere or cabochon.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue, glassy luster, and shell-like (conchoidal) fracture pattern. It cannot be scratched by a steel knife. Major deposits are found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota).