mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace Titanium, Iron, or Manganese
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale to deep pink, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale to deep pink, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), Cleavage: None (Conchoidal fracture), Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling and crystallization of silica-rich magma in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. It gets its pink color from microscopic inclusions of silicate fibers like dumortierite.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry for beads and cabochons, ornamental carvings, crystal healing collections, and as a decorative stone in interior design.
Geological facts
Unlike most quartz varieties, rose quartz usually occurs in massive form and rarely develops well-defined crystal faces. It can exhibit asterism (a star-like light effect) when cut as a sphere or cabochon due to rutile inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink hue and lack of visible crystal faces. Found commonly in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). Note: Intense sunlight can cause the pink color to fade over time.
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