mineral

Rose quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), pink variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Usually pale pink, translucent, with a vitreous to waxy luster and no obvious cleavage; hardness 7 Mohs, specific gravity about 2.65, and trigonal crystal structure. The specimen appears rough and naturally fractured, though identification from the photo is not definitive.

Identified September 7, 2026More mineral →

Explore Rose quartz in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

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

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornamental objects, and inexpensive jewelry; massive rose quartz is also collected as a mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Its pink color is commonly linked to nanoscale inclusions and trace elements rather than ordinary iron coloring. Transparent faceted material is uncommon; star rose quartz can show asterism when cabochon-cut.

Field identification & locations

Test hardness against glass only cautiously, and distinguish it from pink calcite by its lack of cleavage and greater hardness; quartz should not be scratched by a steel knife. Common rough pieces are found in pegmatite-rich regions.