Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive form without external crystal faces
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (with trace amounts of Titanium, Iron, or Manganese)
Formation Process
Igneous formation; crystallizes from cooling magma in granitic pegmatites or hydrothermal veins at high temperatures.
About This Crystal
A translucent to translucent-pink variety of quartz. It features a vitreous to waxy luster and a characteristic milky appearance due to microscopic fibrous inclusions of a borosilicate mineral similar to dumortierite.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale pink to deep rose; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; 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; occasionally exhibits asterism (star effect) when cut as cabochons.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, South Dakota (USA), Namibia, and India; often found in pegmatites
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good; very durable for most jewelry types but subject to chipping from sharp impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight as colors may fade; safe from most household chemicals.
Rarity & Value
Common; value is determined by color intensity and transparency. Deeper pink specimens are more valued than pale, washed-out ones.
Special Characteristics
Known for its translucent 'hazy' look; rare specimens show a six-rayed star (asterism) due to oriented rutile inclusions.
Lore & History
Historically associated with love and beauty since ancient Egypt and Rome. In modern crystal lore, it is known as the 'Stone of Unconditional Love' and associated with the Heart Chakra.