mineral
Rose Quartz
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More mineral →
Explore Rose Quartz in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Usually forms in magmatic pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of a pink fibrous mineral similar to dumortierite within the quartz mass.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry as cabochons, decorative carvings, spheres, and as a healing stone in metaphysical practices. It is also used as a gemstone in sculptures and tiles.
Geological facts
Rose quartz is famous for its distinct hazy or cloudy look caused by internal inclusions. Unlike other quartz varieties, it rarely forms well-defined external crystal faces, appearing instead as massive chunks.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink hue and hardness (it will scratch glass). It is commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota). Collectors look for deep color and clarity.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous