mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
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
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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 through slow cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of a pink fibrous mineral, likely dumortierite.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, decorative stones, and as a popular specimen for crystal collectors.
Geological facts
Rose quartz is rarely found as individual crystals; it mostly occurs in massive form. The first record of it being found was in Rumford, Maine, USA in the 1880s.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink hue and lack of visible crystal faces in massive form. Found globally, with high-quality deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, and South Africa. Collectors look for evenness of color and transparency.
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