mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to deep rose-red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale pink to deep rose-red
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to deep rose-red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling and crystallization of magma in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. Its pink color is often attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink borosilicate mineral related to dumortierite.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for crystal collectors. It is also used in the metaphysical and healing stone industry.
Geological facts
Unlike clear quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined external crystal faces; it usually occurs in massive form. The first pieces of rose quartz were found in a pegmatite in Rumford, Maine, but the most significant historical deposits are in Brazil.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue, translucent nature, and high hardness (it will scratch glass). It lacks cleavage and breaks with shell-like (conchoidal) curves. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and South Dakota (USA).
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