mineral
Rose Quartz
Quartz (SiO2) with trace amounts of Titanium, Iron, or Manganese
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in late-stage crystallization of granitic pegmatites or hydrothermal veins; geological age varies but examples are found in Precambrian to more recent formations.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry, ornamental carvings, lapidary art, and popular in the metaphysical/collecting community. Large blocks are sometimes used as building stone.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and is typically found in massive clusters. The color is often attributed to microscopic inclusions of pink borosilicate minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its translucent pink color and conchoidal fracture. Commonly found in Brazil, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). Scratches glass easily but cannot be scratched by a steel knife.
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metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
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Mineral
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Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous