mineral
Rose quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), pink variety
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs 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.
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Physical properties
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.
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.
