Rose Quartz
Silicon Dioxide var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive form without visible crystal faces (anhedral to subhedral)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, and microscopic inclusions of dumortierite for color
Formation Process
Igneous formation; crystallizes from late-stage silica-rich fluids in granitic pegmatites at high temperatures
About This Crystal
Massive, translucent to semi-opaque specimen with a pale to medium 'rose' pink hue. Exhibits a vitreous to greasy luster with white internal fracturing and cloudy areas.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pink; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (poor); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Usually none, occasionally weak purple under LWUV
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Doubly refractive; may exhibit rare asterism (six-rayed star) if cut as a cabochon due to rutile inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, India, and the United States (South Dakota); typically found in pegmatite cores
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (brittle); high stability overall, though color can be heat-sensitive
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water; avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners if heavily fractured; store away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading
Rarity & Value
Common; value depends on color saturation and transparency; generally affordable, though large, deep-pink carvings or star-quartz specimens command higher prices
Special Characteristics
Displays unique pink coloration through fibrous inclusions rather than individual ions; can show a star effect (asterism) under direct centered lighting
Lore & History
Historically used in jewelry by Egyptians and Romans; traditionally associated with the Heart Chakra and known as the 'Stone of Universal Love' in folklore