Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive habit with rare small prismatic crystals
Mineral Group
Silicate, Tectosilicate
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal environments, often forming in granite pegmatites
About This Crystal
A pale to medium pink, translucent to opaque raw mineral chunk with a vitreous to greasy luster, displaying irregular fractures and massive habit.
Physical Characteristics
Pink body color, white streak, no true cleavage, conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.65, brittle tenacity, piezoelectric properties, typically non-fluorescent
Optical Properties
Singly or weakly doubly refractive, uniaxial positive, refractive index of 1.544-1.553, birefringence of 0.009, occasional asterism or chatoyancy in fine cabochons
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Brazil, South Africa, USA
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, fair toughness due to lack of cleavage, stable against most chemicals except hydrofluoric acid, highly wearable for jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoid ultrasonic cleaners if fractured, store separately to prevent scratching, can fade with prolonged direct sunlight exposure
Rarity & Value
Common, value determined by color saturation, transparency, and size, widely affordable with treatments like irradiation rarely needed
Special Characteristics
Can exhibit asterism (six-rayed star) when cut en cabochon due to microscopic dumortierite or fibrous inclusions, lacks well-defined crystal faces in typical massive specimens
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations such as the Assyrians and Egyptians for talismans and amulets, associated with the heart chakra, and traditionally viewed as a stone of unconditional love and emotional healing