Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, typically massive or compact habit; distinct crystal faces are rare.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2
Formation Process
Primarily forms in pegmatites through magmatic and hydrothermal processes at moderate to high temperatures.
About This Crystal
A tumbled, polished specimen showing a translucent to milky pale pink color with a smooth, rounded shape and vitreous to greasy luster.
Physical Characteristics
Pink body color with a white streak, conchoidal fracture, lack of distinct cleavage, specific gravity of approximately 2.65, and brittle tenacity.
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive with a low birefringence of 0.009, refractive index of 1.544 to 1.553, and faint or absent pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Madagascar, Brazil, USA, South Africa, and India; found primarily in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability for jewelry wear, though lack of cleavage makes it resistant to splitting upon impact.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged direct sunlight, which can cause the pink color to fade.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available; value depends primarily on color saturation and translucency, with affordable pricing for tumbled stones.
Special Characteristics
May exhibit faint asterism (star effect) in rare translucent cabochons due to microscopic dumortierite or fibrous inclusion alignments.
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans as a talisman of love and reconciliation; associated with the Heart Chakra in modern crystal healing traditions as a stone of unconditional love.