Rose Quartz

• Quartz species; hexagonal (trigonal) crystal system; chemical composition SiO2
• Rose Quartz – semitransparent to translucent pink, often very light in tone

Identification:

• Optic Character: DR uniaxial positive or AGG (depending on variety)
• Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553 (very constant)
• Birefringence: .009 (may not be detectable in aggregate varieties) Dispersion: .013
• Pleochroism: weak to strong, different tones of pink
• Ultraviolet Fluorescence: inert to weak purple (SW)
• Cause of Color: rose quartz – titanium and/or color centers
• Specific Gravity: 2.66 (+.03.-.02)
• Polish Luster: vitreous Fracture: conchoidal to uneven or granular (in aggregates)
  Luster: vitreous
• Cleavage: none
• Hardness: 7
• Toughness: good

Enhancements:

• Method: dyeing

Effect: produces vividly colored novelty stones, or imitations of more expensive stone emerald and ruby

Prevalence: common

Detection: appearance, magnification (dye concentrations), may show unusual fluorescence

Stability: fair to good, some dyes may fade

Special Care Instructions: avoid strong solvents and prolonged exposure to strong light

 

Major Source: Brazil, South Africa, India, Mozambique, Sri Lanka.

 

Stone information is from

Gem Reference Guide, Published by GIA. ISBN 0-87311-019-6

Gemstones of the World, Published by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc NY, ISBN 1-4027-4016-6

Encyclopedia of GEMSTONE, Published by ISHINSHA CO., LTD. ISBN 978-986-251-831-1