mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed in high-temperature silica-rich igneous environments, primarily within hydrothermal veins or pegmatites. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of pink fibrous minerals like dumortierite or trace amounts of titanium/manganese.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry, ornamental carvings, alternative healing practices, and as decorative display specimens.
Geological facts
Rose quartz is rarely found as well-formed individual crystals; it usually occurs in massive crystalline aggregates. The pink color is often sensitive to light and can fade over long periods of UV exposure.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic hazy translucent pink color and lack of cleavage. Common locations include Brazil (significant commercial source), South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States (notably South Dakota).
