mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Rose Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of a pinkish fibrous mineral, possibly a borosilicate related to dumortierite.
Uses & applications
Used widely in lapidary for carvings, spheres, beads, and cabochons. Also used as a decorative stone in jewelry and for ornamental display pieces.
Geological facts
Rose quartz is known for its hazy translucency; it rarely forms large, distinct crystals compared to other quartz varieties. When cut properly, some specimens exhibit asterism (a star-like effect).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive pink hue and conchoidal fracture. In the field, look for massive quartz outcrops. Common locations include Brazil, South Africa, India, and Madagascar.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous