mineral

Rough rose quartz

Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), pink variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; translucent pale pink with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture. It is typically massive rather than visibly crystal-faced, with no cleavage and a specific gravity near 2.65.

Identified September 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness 7; translucent pale pink with a vitreous luster and irregular fracture. It is typically massive rather than visibly crystal-faced, with no cleavage and a specific gravity near 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Rose quartz forms mainly in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins as silica-rich fluids cool; its pink color commonly relates to microscopic inclusions of dumortierite-like minerals or other trace elements. Most specimens are Precambrian to younger, depending on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive cabochons, beads, carvings, polished pieces, and ornamental stone; massive material has limited industrial value compared with ordinary quartz.

Geological facts

The specimen appears to be rough rose quartz, though the image alone cannot exclude pale pink quartz or glass. Stronger color and transparency generally increase desirability.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness, glassy luster, white streak, lack of cleavage, and resistance to scratching by steel; common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, and South Dakota. Avoid confusing it with pink calcite, which is softer and cleaves readily.