Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive form, rarely forming distinct crystal faces
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with trace inclusions of fibrous dumortierite, manganese, or titanium
Formation Process
Primarily formed in pegmatites through the slow cooling of magma at high temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
The specimen is a tumbled, translucent stone with a pale pink to rose-red hue. It exhibits a vitreous to waxy luster and contains internal fractures and cloudy inclusions characteristic of massive quartz.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pink; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Often inert, occasionally weak purple under UV
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Weak pleochroism; occasionally shows asterism due to rutile needle inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Fair to Good; Very stable for jewelry use but susceptible to fading
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight as it may cause the color to fade; store away from harder stones like diamonds
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is driven by color saturation and transparency; typically affordable, commonly found in tumbled and bead forms
Special Characteristics
Can exhibit a six-rayed star (asterism) when cut into cabochons; distinguished by its unique macrocrystalline but massive habit
Lore & History
Historically used in tokens of love since ancient Roman and Egyptian times; traditionally associated with the Heart Chakra and believed to promote unconditional love and emotional healing