Pink Quartzite
Quartzite (Metamorphic Rock consisting primarily of Quartz) · Decorative Stone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal (individual grains); Massive/Granular habit in rock form
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with trace hematite/iron oxide inclusions)
Formation Process
Metamorphic: Formed when quartz-rich sandstone is subjected to high heat and pressure, causing the sand grains to recrystallize into an interlocking mosaic.
About This Crystal
A small, tumbled or weathered piece of quartzite characterized by a grainy, sugary appearance. The specimen exhibits a pale pink to salmon hue with white mottling, an opaque to translucent transparency, and a dull to greasy luster.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pink to reddish-pink with white patches; Streak: White; Cleavage: None (fractures across grains); Fracture: Uneven to splintery; Specific Gravity: 2.63-2.65; Fluorescence: Usually inert but may show weak orange under LWUV if certain impurities are present.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: ~1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; No significant pleochroism; Typically displays an aggregate optical reaction under polarized light.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; notable deposits in Brazil, USA (South Dakota), and Canada. Typical of mountain ranges and ancient shields.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Extremely tough and durable due to interlocking crystalline structure; high resistance to chemical weathering.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water; safe for ultrasonic cleaning; very stable stone that does not fade in sunlight or react to most household chemicals.
Rarity & Value
Common; low monetary value as a single small specimen. Value is derived from industrial use or large-scale architectural application rather than gemological rarity.
Special Characteristics
Displays a 'sugary' or granoblastic texture where individual quartz grains have fused together, distinguishing it from the smooth conchoidal fracture of macro-crystalline quartz.
Lore & History
Historically used for making stone tools due to its hardness. In metaphysical traditions, pink stones are often associated with the Heart Chakra and emotional grounding, though quartzite specifically is valued for its symbolism of transformation and endurance.