Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal, typically forms in massive habits, rarely as distinct prismatic crystals
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Primarily forms in pegmatites through magmatic crystallization, as well as in hydrothermal veins and metamorphic environments
About This Crystal
A pale pink, translucent to opaque quartz specimen shaped into a polished or tumbled pendant form, showing internal fractures and a vitreous to waxy luster
Physical Characteristics
Pale pink to rose-red body color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, no true cleavage, specific gravity around 2.65, brittle tenacity, piezoelectric properties
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive, refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, birefringence of 0.009, generally lacks pleochroism in massive forms, can occasionally exhibit chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) due to microscopic inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Brazil, United States, South Africa, and India
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability for everyday jewelry use though internal fractures can be points of weakness
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoid harsh chemicals, prolonged direct sunlight can cause the pink color to fade
Rarity & Value
Common and widely accessible, value depends on color saturation, transparency, and size, rarely treated as enhancements are generally unnecessary
Special Characteristics
May contain microscopic dumortierite or fibrous inclusions that cause subtle asterism or chatoyancy in rare specimens
Lore & History
Associated historically with love, emotional healing, and compassion, often linked to the Heart Chakra in modern crystal healing traditions