mineral

Rose Quartz

Silicon dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 (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 (Mohs scale)
Color: Pale pink to rose red
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (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

Formed in high-temperature silica-rich magmatic environments, primarily in pegmatites. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of fibrous dumortierite or similar minerals. Typically found in Precambrian to Cenozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Extensively used for ornamental carvings, beads, jewelry, and as decorative stones in gardening or metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Unlike clear quartz, rose quartz rarely forms large, well-defined crystal faces; it typically occurs in massive crystalline form. Some specimens show 'asterism' (a star effect) when cut into spheres.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic pink hue and translucency. It will scratch glass but cannot be scratched by a steel nail. Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, and South Dakota.