mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale pink to rose red, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Pale pink to rose red, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture), Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous pegmatites as liquid magma cools. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink mineral related to dumortierite or trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese.
Uses & applications
Popular for lapidary work, jewelry (beads and cabochons), ornamental carvings, and widely used in metaphysical/spiritual practices as a 'love stone.'
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystal faces and is usually found in massive form. The first rose quartz crystals were discovered in Maine in the early 20th century.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pink hue and translucency. It is common in pegmatites worldwide, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota and Maine).
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous