mineral
Tumbled rose quartz
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂), rose-colored variety
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 Mohs; pale pink to salmon, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster. Massive and microcrystalline rather than showing distinct crystal faces; cleavage absent, fracture conchoidal, specific gravity about 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 Mohs; pale pink to salmon, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster. Massive and microcrystalline rather than showing distinct crystal faces; cleavage absent, fracture conchoidal, specific gravity about 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms mainly in granitic pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, where trace elements and microscopic inclusions create the pink color; most specimens are Precambrian to Phanerozoic in age. This piece has been rounded and polished by tumbling.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornamental objects, and inexpensive collection specimens; rarely used as an industrial quartz source.
Geological facts
The color may result from nanoscale dumortierite-like inclusions or other trace materials, rather than simply manganese. Strongly colored transparent material is uncommon and more valuable than ordinary massive rose quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its pink color, glassy polish, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass; confirm with hardness and specific-gravity tests. Important sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, South Africa, and the United States.
