mineral

Rose quartz

Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), pink variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 7 Mohs; translucent pink, vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and no cleavage. Typically massive rather than well-crystallized; color comes mainly from microscopic inclusions or trace elements.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in igneous and metamorphic environments, commonly associated with granite and pegmatite. Most rose quartz is Precambrian to younger, but exact age depends on its host rock.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, beads, carvings, cabochons, and inexpensive jewelry; fine transparent material is collectible but uncommon.

Geological facts

The specimen’s rough, pale-pink appearance is consistent with rose quartz, though pink calcite or glass can look similar. Rose quartz rarely forms sharply terminated crystals.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include Brazil, Madagascar, India, South Africa, and the United States. Confirm with a scratch test: quartz scratches glass, while calcite does not; avoid testing valuable specimens.