mineral

Rose quartz

Quartz (SiO₂), pink variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; pale translucent pink, vitreous to waxy luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and indistinct cleavage with conchoidal fracture. The smooth shape indicates a polished or tumbled specimen.

Identified September 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins when trace titanium, iron, or manganese colors quartz; most natural rose quartz formed in Precambrian to younger granitic environments.

Uses & applications

Used for ornamental carvings, beads, cabochons, meditation stones, and inexpensive jewelry; polished pieces are popular collectors’ specimens.

Geological facts

Rose quartz commonly occurs massive rather than as well-formed crystals. Its pink color may fade with prolonged sunlight or heating.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its even pale pink color, glassy hardness, and inability to be scratched by a steel knife; it should scratch glass, unlike pink calcite or dyed glass. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, and South Dakota, USA.