mineral

Rose quartz

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), pink variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; pale pink, translucent to semi-transparent, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no prominent cleavage. The specimen appears rough, fractured, and possibly naturally weathered or lightly shaped.

Identified September 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins when trace elements and microscopic inclusions color quartz pink; most rose quartz is Precambrian to younger. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, South Africa, and the United States.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornaments, and metaphysical collecting; less commonly used as industrial quartz because its color and fractures reduce technical value.

Geological facts

Rose quartz’s color is commonly linked to microscopic inclusions of dumortierite-like minerals, though some crystals owe color to trace structural defects. Well-formed crystals are uncommon; massive material is typical.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its uniform soft pink color, glassy fracture, hardness, and inability to scratch with a steel blade; it should scratch glass. Similar pink glass or calcite is softer and may show bubbles or cleavage.