
mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale pink to rose red. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.
- Hardness
- 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale pink to rose red. Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to greasy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Usually forms in magmatic pegmatites through the slow cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids. The pink color is generally attributed to trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used for ornamental purposes, including carvings, jewelry (cabochons and beads), and as architectural accents. It is also highly popular in the metaphysical and crystal collecting communities.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces; it is typically found in massive chunks. It is known as the 'Stone of Love' in many cultures.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink hue, high hardness (can scratch glass), and lack of cleavage. Look for it in pegmatite veins or as water-worn pebbles in stream beds near granitic regions.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock