mineral
Rose Quartz
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: pale pink to rose red; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (usually massive); Cleavage: Indistinct/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: Trigonal/Hexagonal (usually massive); Cleavage: Indistinct/Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins at high temperatures. The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of fibrous dumortierite or similar borosilicate minerals.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and for aquarium decoration or metaphysical purposes.
Geological facts
Unlike other varieties of quartz, rose quartz rarely forms well-defined crystals; it is almost always found in massive form. It can exhibit asterism (a star effect) when cut as a sphere or cabochon due to rutile inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct pink hue and hardness (can scratch glass). Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota).
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