Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, shaped or cut into a polished hexagonal prismatic tower or generator habit
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Igneous and pegmatitic formation, crystallizing from silica-rich magma solutions at high temperatures
About This Crystal
A polished, translucent to semi-transparent tower of pale pink quartz with smooth facets, minor internal fractures, and subtle inclusions giving it a milky, soft appearance
Physical Characteristics
Pale pink body color, white streak, conchoidal fracture, completely lacks cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, brittle tenacity, and typically inert under UV light
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive with a low birefringence of 0.009, uniaxial positive optic sign, and vitreous to sub-waxy luster on polished surfaces
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Brazil, USA, and South Africa; typically forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable for daily wear though susceptible to scratching by harder minerals like topaz or corundum; lacks cleavage planes
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush, avoid harsh chemical cleaners and prolonged direct sunlight which may cause the pink color to fade over time
Rarity & Value
Common and widely accessible, with value depending on color saturation, transparency, and size, ranging from inexpensive polished shapes to higher costs for transparent gem-grade material
Special Characteristics
May occasionally exhibit asterism (star effect) or chatoyancy when cut in cabochon form due to microscopic microscopic dumortierite or fibrous inclusions
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations such as the Assyrians and Egyptians for amulets and ornaments; widely associated in modern crystal healing with the heart chakra, representing unconditional love, compassion, and emotional healing