mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal System: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Pale pink to rose red
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal System: Trigonal; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks, primarily within pegmatites. The pink color is generally attributed to trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, or microscopic inclusions of aluminum-containing borosilicate.

Uses & applications

Mainly used for lapidary purposes, including cabochons, beads, decorative carvings, and occasionally faceted gems. It is highly popular in metaphysical and crystal collecting communities.

Geological facts

Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystals; instead, it occurs in massive form. If the specimen contains silk-like inclusions of rutile, it can exhibit asterism (a star-like reflection).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pink hue and translucency. Large deposits are found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota and Maine). It does not exhibit cleavage and has a conchoidal fracture.