Rose Quartz
Quartz var. Rose Quartz (IMA-approved name: Quartz) · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system, typically forms in massive habits, though rare macrocrystalline hexagonal prismatic crystals can occur. Tumbled and polished specimens are common.
Mineral Group
Silicate mineral group, specifically Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese causing the pink color)
Formation Process
Primarily forms in pegmatitic environments during the late stages of magma crystallization, as well as in hydrothermal veins and sometimes metamorphic rocks.
About This Crystal
A small, tumbled, pale pink specimen displaying translucent to semi-translucent clarity with a vitreous to waxy luster. It exhibits a smooth, rounded surface typical of commercial tumbling processes.
Physical Characteristics
Color is pale pink to rose pink; streak is white; cleavage is absent (indiscernible due to massive habit); fracture is conchoidal; specific gravity is approximately 2.65; tenacity is brittle; exhibits piezoelectric properties.
Optical Properties
Singly or doubly refractive with a low birefringence of 0.009; refractive index ranges from 1.544 to 1.553; usually non-pleochroic or very weakly pleochroic in thick sections.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with notable commercial deposits in Madagascar, Brazil, the United States (South Dakota), India, and South Africa. Typically forms in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7; fair to good toughness; high stability against most common chemicals, but can fade or change color under prolonged intense UV light or high heat.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid harsh chemical cleaners, prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading, and ultrasonic cleaners if internal fractures are present.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available; value is determined by color saturation, transparency, and size, with deeply saturated translucent spheres or star varieties commanding higher prices. Treatments are rare as the natural material is abundant.
Special Characteristics
Some massive varieties can exhibit chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) or asterism (six-rayed star) when cut en cabochon, caused by microscopic aligned needle-like inclusions of dumortierite or rutile.
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations such as the Assyrians and Egyptians as early as 800-600 BCE for amulets and seals. In modern crystal healing and lore, it is known as the stone of unconditional love, traditionally associated with the Heart Chakra and emotional healing.