mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese
Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: pale pink to rose-red, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.65
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 (Mohs), Color: pale pink to rose-red, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in granitic pegmatites through the crystallization of magma at high temperatures and pressures. Its pink color is typically attributed to microscopic inclusions of fibrous dumortierite-related minerals.
Uses & applications
Extensively used for ornamental jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, decorative home items, and favored by collectors as a symbol of love and emotional healing.
Geological facts
Unlike many other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms large, well-defined crystals and is usually found in massive form. The variety that does form distinct crystals is often called 'pink quartz' and is chemically different.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its translucent pink hue and ability to scratch glass. In the field, it is found in pegmatite veins. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota).
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock