mineral

Desert Rose

Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate, CaSO4·2H2O) or Barite (Barium Sulfate, BaSO4)

Hardness: 2.0 (Gypsum) or 3.0-3.5 (Barite); Color: Tan, sandy brown, or cream; Luster: Dull, earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic or Orthorhombic bladed clusters; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction (though obscured by sand)

Hardness: 2
Color: Tan, sandy brown, or cream
Luster: Dull, earthy

Identified February 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in arid sandy conditions through the evaporation of salt-rich water. As the water evaporates, minerals crystallize in circular bladed patterns around trapped sand grains. Most common in Holocene to Pleistocene deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as decorative specimens, in rock collections, and occasionally in metaphysical jewelry. Gypsum is also used in dry wall or plaster.

Geological facts

The unique petal-like shape is caused by the mineral growing in the gaps between sand grains. They are sometimes called 'Sand Roses' or 'Selenite Roses'. The largest found weighed over 1,000 pounds.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive rose-like bladed symmetry and sandy texture. Commonly found in the Sahara Desert (Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco), Saudi Arabia, and the Southwestern United States (Oklahoma, Arizona). Collectors should look for intact 'petals' without bruising.

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