mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace Titanium, Iron, or Manganese
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often occurs in massive form); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (often occurs in massive form); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in high-temperature hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink mineral similar to dumortierite.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), luxury interior decoration, ornamental carvings, and widely collected for its aesthetic and alleged metaphysical properties.
Geological facts
Rose quartz is one of the few quartz varieties that rarely forms distinct crystal faces; it almost always occurs in massive aggregates. It is the state mineral of South Dakota, USA.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink hue and quartz-like waxy luster. In the field, look for conchoidal fractures and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the USA (South Dakota).
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