
mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; 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 to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Usually forms in magma-rich environments like pegmatites or hydrothermal veins. The pink color is generally attributed to microscopic inclusions of pink fibrous minerals like dumortierite within the quartz structure.
Uses & applications
Used widely in ornamental carvings, jewelry (beads and cabochons), and as a popular collector's mineral. In some industries, quartz is used for its piezoelectric properties, though rose quartz is primarily aesthetic.
Geological facts
Rose quartz rarely forms finished crystal faces and is most commonly found in massive form. It has been used in talismans since ancient Roman, Egyptian, and Greek civilizations.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue and lack of cleavage planes. Found abundantly in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (specifically South Dakota).
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