Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive form without external crystal faces (anhedral)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese
Formation Process
Igneous formation; common in late-stage hydrothermal veins and granitic pegmatites
About This Crystal
Translucent to cloudy pink material with a soft, vitreous luster. This specimen is carved into a double-terminated hexagonal point pendant. It shows a milky, hazy appearance typical of micro-inclusions of pink borosilicate fibers.
Physical Characteristics
Color: pale pink to rose red; Streak: white; Cleavage: none; Fracture: conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: weak purple (occasionally none); Piezoelectric and pyroelectric.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Uniaxial (+); occasional asterism when cut as cabochons due to rutile inclusions.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil (Minas Gerais), Madagascar, South Africa, Namibia, and USA (South Dakota)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: good; highly durable for jewelry but can be brittle if it contains significant internal fractures.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight as colors may fade; safe for ultrasonic cleaning unless significant internal fractures are present.
Rarity & Value
Very common; value is determined by color intensity and clarity. Deep pink, transparent specimens are more valuable than pale, milky massive material. Generally carries a low-to-moderate price point.
Special Characteristics
Known for its 'sleepy' translucency. Transparent well-formed crystals of rose quartz are extremely rare and usually referred to as 'Pink Quartz' rather than Rose Quartz.
Lore & History
Historically used in beads and seals since approx. 7000 BCE in Mesopotamia. Traditionally symbolized as the 'Stone of Unconditional Love' and associated with the Heart Chakra in modern crystal healing circles.