
mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (usually found in massive form); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pale pink to rose red
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (usually found in massive form); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Usually forms in magmatic pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich hydrothermal fluids. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of pink borosilicate fibers (similar to dumortierite).
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (cabochons, beads), luxury interior decoration, ornamental carvings, and historical use in 'healing crystals' or lapidary arts.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces; it is almost always found in large, 'massive' chunks. It is the state mineral of South Dakota, USA.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinctive pink hue, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota and New England).
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
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Metamorphic
Epidote
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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