mineral (native element alloy)
Rose Gold (Copper-Gold Alloy)
Aurum-Cuprum Alloy (Au-Cu)
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink, rose, or red-tinted gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Face-centered cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: Approx. 14.0-17.0 depending on copper content.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Pink, rose, or red-tinted gold
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink, rose, or red-tinted gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Face-centered cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: Approx. 14.0-17.0 depending on copper content.
Formation & geological history
Rose gold is a human-made alloy of gold and copper, though native gold often naturally contains trace amounts of copper. While metallic gold is billions of years old, this specific pink alloy was popularized in Russia in the 19th century.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in high-end jewelry, watchmaking, and ornamentation due to its unique warm hue and higher durability compared to pure yellow gold.
Geological facts
Also known as 'Russian Gold' because it was first popularized by Carl Fabergé in his famous Imperial Eggs. The more copper used, the redder the gold becomes.
Field identification & locations
In the field, it is identified by its distinctive pinkish-metallic sheen that does not tarnish easily like pure copper. It is commonly found in retail jewelry environments rather than geological deposits.
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