Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive habit with irregular, blocky shapes showing no distinct well-formed crystal faces
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal formation; crystallizes from silica-rich magmatic fluids at high temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A chunky, hand-sized raw specimen of pale pink rose quartz, exhibiting translucent to opaque areas with a vitreous to greasy luster, showing uneven fracture surfaces and natural blocky mass habits
Physical Characteristics
Pale pink body color, white streak, no true cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and piezoelectric properties
Optical Properties
Singly or weakly doubly refractive, uniaxial positive, refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, typically lacks strong pleochroism in massive forms but can display faint asterism (star effect) in cabochons due to microscopic dumortierite or rutile inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Brazil, USA (South Dakota), and South Africa; typically forms in granitic pegmatites
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable for general handling and carving, though massive varieties like this lack cleavage and are fairly tough; suitable for most jewelry with proper settings
Care & Maintenance
Wash gently with warm soapy water using a soft cloth, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can cause the pink color to fade, and keep away from harsh hydrofluoric acid
Rarity & Value
Common, widely available globally; value depends on color saturation, transparency, and size, with deeply saturated translucent pieces commanding higher prices; generally very affordable
Special Characteristics
Often contains microscopic fibrous inclusions that can produce chatoyancy or asterism when properly cut and polished, and exhibits strong piezoelectricity
Lore & History
Known historically as the stone of unconditional love and peace, heavily used in ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek cultures for amulets and seals; associated with the Heart Chakra in modern crystal healing lore