Rose Quartz is a variety of quartz (SiO₂) distinguished by its pale to medium pink color. Its color is due to trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese, and in some specimens, microscopic fibrous inclusions of a mineral similar to dumortierite. It is one of the most common and well-studied colored quartz varieties.
Features:
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Composition: Rose quartz is composed of silicon dioxide, forming in the trigonal crystal system. It typically occurs in massive form rather than distinct crystals.
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Coloration: The pink hue is attributed to trace elements and, in some cases, to microscopic inclusions that also cause light scattering, giving the stone a cloudy or milky appearance.
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Formation: Found in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins, rose quartz forms as silica-rich fluids cool and crystallize under high pressure over long periods.
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Geologic Occurrence: Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, South Dakota (USA), and Namibia.
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Educational Value: Useful for demonstrating trace element effects on mineral color, quartz varieties, and mineral formation in igneous environments.
This specimen is ideal for geology education, mineral identification, and natural history collections.
