Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive crystalline form; rarely forms distinct crystal faces.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with trace amounts of Titanium (Ti), Manganese (Mn), or Iron (Fe)
Formation Process
Igneous/Hydrothermal; crystallizes at high temperatures from magma in pegmatites or hydrothermal veins.
About This Crystal
A pale pink to rosy-red translucent to opaque variety of quartz with a vitreous to waxy luster. This specimen is polished into a sphere, showing a milky transparency and hazy internal veining.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale pink; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Weak purple under LWUV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Double Refraction; can exhibit asterism (six-rayed star) due to rutile inclusions.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil (Minas Gerais), Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). Found in pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good; very durable for jewelry and carving applications.
Care & Maintenance
Safe with warm soapy water; avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight as color can fade over time.
Rarity & Value
Very common; value is determined by color intensity and transparency. Large carvings and spheres are affordable.
Special Characteristics
May show asterism (star effect) when cut as cabochons or spheres if microscopic rutile needles are present.
Lore & History
Historically used in talismans in Ancient Egypt and Rome; traditionally labeled the 'Stone of Unconditional Love' associated with the Heart Chakra.