Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, shaped into a carved prismatic tower/obelisk habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Subgroup: Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal formation, typically crystallizing from silica-rich magmatic fluids at high temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
A polished, upright crystal tower or obelisk showing a pale pink to milky pink color, translucent transparency, vitreous to waxy luster, and internal cloudy veining with minor natural fracture lines
Physical Characteristics
Pale pink body color, white streak, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and piezoelectric properties
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive with a refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, low birefringence, generally non-pleochroic, though asterism (star effect) can occur in specific cabochon cuts due to microscopic dumortierite or fiber inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Brazil, South Africa, and the USA; forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable for daily wear, though it lacks cleavage and has fair toughness; resistant to scratching by most household objects
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can cause the pink color to fade
Rarity & Value
Common; value depends on color saturation, transparency, and size, with deeply saturated translucent pieces commanding higher prices; generally affordable
Special Characteristics
Can exhibit chatoyancy or asterism (six-rayed star) when cut en cabochon due to microscopic oriented fibrous inclusions, and displays piezoelectricity
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations such as the Assyrians and Egyptians for amulets and seals; widely known in modern crystal lore as the stone of unconditional love, associated primarily with the Heart Chakra