Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in massive form without external crystal faces (anhedral)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese causing the pink hue
Formation Process
Igneous formation; crystallizes from cooling magma in large pegmatite veins at high temperatures and pressures.
About This Crystal
A soft pink to rose-red variety of quartz. This specimen is translucent with a waxy to vitreous luster, polished into a rounded palm stone shape with visible internal fractures and a cloudy appearance typical of the variety.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pale pink; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Occasionally weak purple under UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Uniaxial (+); occasional asterism (star effect) if rutilated, though not visible in this specimen.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil (Minas Gerais), Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States (South Dakota). Found in granite pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (brittle); Durable enough for daily jewelry wear but susceptible to chipping if struck.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if deep fractures are present. Store out of direct sunlight as prolonged exposure can cause the pink color to fade.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available. Value is determined by color intensity and transparency. Untreated, though occasionally dyed to enhance color in low-grade specimens.
Special Characteristics
The pink color is attributed to microscopic inclusions of a fibrous pink borosilicate mineral (similar to dumortierite) rather than simple elemental substitution.
Lore & History
Historically used in talismans since 800-600 B.C. by Assyrians and Romans. Classically associated with 'unconditional love' and the heart chakra in modern folklore and healing traditions.