
mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7.0 on 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
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7.0 on 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
Forms primarily in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the crystallization of silica-rich fluids. The pink hue is attributed to trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, or microscopic inclusions of dumortierite.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in lapidary work for cabochons, beads, and carvings. Popular in jewelry, home decor, and spiritual/metaphysical collections.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystals and is usually found in massive form. Large specimens are often sourced from Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States (South Dakota).
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinctive pink color, waxy luster, and lack of cleavage (it breaks into curved, shell-like shards). It is harder than glass and steel. Commonly found in coarse-grained igneous rocks.
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Other mineral specimens
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
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous