mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous/glassy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); 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 (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites through the slow cooling of silica-rich magma. It is typically found in massive forms rather than distinct crystals. Geological age varies significantly depending on the deposit, often ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry as cabochons, carvings, and beads. It is also popular in the metaphysical community and used as an ornamental stone in home decor. High-quality specimens are prized by geological collectors.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces; it is almost always found as a massive, translucent chunk. The pink color is often attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink mineral similar to dumortierite.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct pink color, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota).
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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