mineral
Strawberry Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite or Goethite inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: translucent to reddish-pink; Luster: vitreous; Crystal Structure: trigonal/hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs)
- Color
- translucent to reddish-pink
- Luster
- vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: translucent to reddish-pink; Luster: vitreous; Crystal Structure: trigonal/hexagonal; Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous or pegmatitic environments where quartz crystals grow with micro-inclusions of iron oxides like hematite, lepidocrocite, or goethite.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a collector's specimen due to its unique sparkling appearance.
Geological facts
Natural strawberry quartz is rare; most material on the market is either 'Cherry Quartz' (man-made glass) or Aventurine. True Strawberry Quartz has internal sparkling flecks called 'schiller'.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass) and the presence of tiny needle-like or plate-like red inclusions within the clear or pink quartz body.
