Rose quartz is one of the most well-liked crystals in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. Jewelry and art alike feature this delicate pink wonder, whose symbolic significance is as potent as its visual appeal.
If ruby is the king of gems, then rose quartz is the queen of all pink gemstones. It’s all about love with this stone – self-love, romantic love, and familial love.
In this guide will take a comprehensive look at all things rose quartz, from its history and symbolism to its benefits and even how to care for it.
Continue reading to discover everything you need to know about this incredible crystal!
What is a Rose Quartz Gemstone & Where are They Found
Rose quartz is a subset of the quartz family that gets its name and characteristic pink tint from the inclusion of titanium, iron, or manganese. It has massive reserves in many different countries, including Brazil, Madagascar, India, and South Africa.
Meaning & Symbolism
Rose quartz is a popular gemstone because of the romantic and alluring connotations connected with its signature pink tint. In fact, it’s sometimes called the “love stone” because it’s believed to open up the heart chakra and promote self-love, self-confidence, and forgiveness. Additionally, rose quartz is said to help attract new romance into your life.
The gentle pink hue of rose quartz has made it a symbol of femininity in addition to love and beauty. As such, it’s a popular gift to new mothers or young girls transitioning into womanhood. It’s also a popular stone for making gemstone water or elixirs, which are thought to have beautifying effects when consumed internally.
History & Origin
The usage of rose quartz dates back to prehistoric times. It was first mentioned in Greek mythology and later used by the Romans and Egyptians. The stone was said to have various powers, including healing wounds and promoting love.
Although found worldwide, the vast majority of commercially-available rose quartz comes from Brazil. In fact, the state of Minas Gerais produces about 98% of the world’s supply! In light of Minas Gerais’s nickname as the “Crystal Capital of Brazil,” this is hardly a surprise.
The state is home to some of the world’s largest deposits of semiprecious stones, including agates, amethysts, tourmalines, and—of course—rose quartz. In fact, there’s even a town called Quartzo Rosa (“pink quartz” in Portuguese) where you can find several mines and crystal shops.
What Does Rose Quartz Look Like: Colors & Properties
So, how many different types of rose quartz are commercially available? Let’s find out.
Rose quartz can vary quite a bit in terms of color intensity; some stones are almost white, while others are a deep shade of pink. The precise hue also depends on the other minerals present in the stone; for example, iron will give rose quartz a more reddish tint, while manganese will provide it with a purple hue.
When it comes to quality, the darker the pink color of the stone, the higher the value. The most sought-after shade is called “rose de France” and resembles the color of a blooming rose.
In terms of transparency, most rose quartz is semi-transparent or opaque. And because it’s made up mostly of silicon dioxide (aka silica), it has a Mohs hardness rating of 7 out of 10—making it scratchable by a knife blade but not by glass.
Price Range: How Much is Rose Quartz Worth?
Price-wise, rose quartz falls under the category of semi-precious stones. That means it’s not as rare or expensive as diamonds or rubies, but it’s still quite valuable.
The price per carat can range anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on the stone’s quality.
Buying Tips for Rose Quartz to Get the Best Value for Your Money
A beautifully faceted and polished chunk of rose quartz gemstone may be quite the eye-catcher. So, if you’re looking to invest in some rose quartz rings, here are a few tips to keep in mind to get the best value for your money.
- Rose quartz is typically priced by carat, so be sure to check the weight of the gemstone before making a purchase.
- The cut of the rose quartz gemstone can also affect the price, so be sure to ask about the quality of the cut before purchasing.
- In terms of quality, rose quartz that is free of blemishes and inclusions will be more expensive than those that aren’t.
- It’s also important to take note of the color of the rose quartz gemstone. Those with a deeper hue will typically be more expensive than those with a lighter color.
- When shopping for rose quartz gemstones, working with a reputable dealer is essential to avoid being scammed.
Healing Properties: What is Rose Quartz Crystal Good For?
When it comes to healing properties, rose quartz is said to be beneficial for promoting relaxation and restoring harmony. It’s also thought to improve self-esteem and foster self-love. If you’re looking for a way to reduce stress in your life, consider carrying a piece of rose quartz with you or keeping it in your home or office.
Apart from the therapeutic properties, there are several astrological benefits of rose quartz, as detailed in various texts.
For instance, rose quartz has a link to the planet Venus, which is considered the planet that governs our love life. That’s why rose quartz is said to be a relationship talisman. People who want to reconcile after an argument or fight also find it helpful.
Additionally, the stone activates the heart chakra, bringing out greater feelings of love and compassion. Rose quartz is also the birthstone for the month of January. This means that if you are born in January, rose quartz is considered your lucky stone.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Rose Quartz Jewelry
In terms of taking care of your rose quartz ring, loose crystals, or jewelry, there are a few things you’ll need to do to keep it in good condition:
- First, because this type of quartz is relatively soft (it has a Mohs hardness rating of 7), it can easily scratch or chip if it comes into contact with harder surfaces like concrete or granite countertops.
- To avoid damage, store your rose quartz jewelry in a padded jewelry box or fabric-lined case when you’re not wearing it.
- You’ll also need to clean your rose quartz regularly using only mild soap and water; harsh chemicals can damage the stone’s surface.
- Lastly, avoid exposing your rose quartz crystals to extreme temperatures, which can cause cracking or breakage.
How to Know if Rose Quartz is Real
If you’re in the market for rose quartz, you may wonder how to tell if rose quartz is real. After all, with so many imitations in the market, it’s crucial to be able to discern a genuine piece from a fake.
Here are a few tips on how to tell if rose quartz is genuine:
Check the Color
Genuine rose quartz should be a pale pink color. It may be an imitation if the stone is too dark or too light.
Inspect the Surface
Rose quartz should have a smooth, polished surface. If the surface is rough or uneven, likely, the stone is not real.
Examine the Edges
Rose quartz should have well-defined edges. The stone is probably not genuine if the edges are blurry or undefined.
Test the Hardness
Rose quartz is relatively soft, so it should scratch easily. If the gemstone is difficult to scratch, it may be an imitation.
Try a Magnet Test
If a magnet attracts the stone, it is not genuine rose quartz since true rose quartz is not magnetic.
Also See: Gemstone and Their Meaning
FAQs
No, rose quartz should not go into the water. Water can damage the stone and cause it to lose its shine.
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to sleep wearing rose quartz. There is a common belief that this stone’s sedative effects might assist in a restful night’s sleep.
Yes, rose quartz can be kept in the sun. However, ensuring the stone does not get too hot is crucial, as this can damage it.
No, rose quartz is not a pink diamond. Quartz is a form of crystal, while diamonds are carbon-based.
Interested in a Rose Quartz Gem?
As you can see, there’s a lot to love about rose quartz! Even in modern times, the stone retains its significance as a potent symbol of love, making it a common Valentine’s Day present.
Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a little pink rose quartz in their repository?
Whether you use it in your jewelry or keep it purely decorative, we hope this guide has inspired you to add some rose quartz to your life!
