Rose Quartz

Rose Quartz began much like other Quartz crystals. Molten magma from volcanic activity or through the shifting of continental plates formed massive pipes and lenses as enormous pressures forced this liquid into any empty space it could find. Over hundreds of years the pegmatite cooled, allowing the silicates to interact with other minerals and initiating the growth of crystals.

Unlike other Quartz crystals that can grow into beautifully terminated specimens, it is only under the rarest circumstances that Rose Quartz will terminate into crystal points. Most terminated Rose Quartz specimens grow into micro crystalline structures, with tiny almost imperceptible points. Brazil is the only place that terminated Quartz crystals have been found. In the famous Minas Garis and Poco D'Anta mines.

Rose Quartz is available all around the world. In the US the Custer Mines in South Dakota are reputed to have some of the finest material available in the states. Madagascar is also famous for their Rose Quartz; India, Germany, Africa, Sri Lanka (Romans imported their Rose Quartz from these mines); Scotland, Switzerland, Canada and Spain are just a few of the other localities where this crystal is found.

For several years the color of Rose Quartz was believed to be caused by Manganese and Titanium (Rutiles) inclusions. Before that, geologists theorized the color came from Iron or organic material. Recent studies using new techniques (x-rays and micro analytical methods) have shown that in massive Rose Quartz formations the color is the result of tiny microscopic mineral fibers (similar to those found in Dumortierite). These fibers show some similarities to other minerals, yet it is different enough that it is now being considered a new mineral.

These same examinations done on terminated and the highest quality Rose Quartz
(sometimes referred to as gemmy Rose Quartz) show that the rosy pinks come from Aluminum and Phosphorous inclusions. The Phosphorous explains why some (very few) specimens will glow in the dark. Crystals of this quality are very sensitive to light and have been known to fade with prolonged exposure to Sun or other harsh lights.

It would appear from these newer studies that there are actually two varieties of Rose Quartz.

Titanium inclusions in the crystal create a couple of different effects. Massive inclusions are responsible for the milky streaks seen in many Rose Quartz specimens. Well formed Rutile needles grown in the right orientation within the stone will produce asterisms (stars). However, to see these stars light must shine through the crystal, instead of on its surface (Ruby and Sapphire stars become visible when light plays on the surface of the gem).

Universally, Rose Quartz is seen as a stone of love, peace and calm. The Chinese Goddess of Peace was traditionally carved from this stone because it was believed to embody her gentle wisdom. Almost every tradition gives it the power to bring love into your life.

But, more than bringing love from others, to you, it is a great teacher of self-love. Providing the strength and courage to love your self is one of the most important attributes of the crystal. Carrying a Rose Quartz will improve your self-assurance, allow you to forgive yourself and others, give you emotional balance and open your heart to acceptance. Without assurance, forgiveness, balance and acceptance, it is almost impossible to love yourself.

If your heart has been broken by love or life, Rose Quartz can help you heal those wounds. Plus, as you learn to love yourself, you will be less likely to allow yourself into situations where your heart can be broken.

When you are confronted with injustice, or the inappropriate actions of others, this crystal will help you work through your anger in a productive manner. Helping you to react and act in ways that will help resolve the problem and prevent you from internalizing your emotions. It provides a release for destructive or angry feelings without causing chaos. Sometimes it is necessary to get mad, but it is never healthy not to act on that necessity.

Rose Quartz can help you build immunity to dangerous emotions like jealousy and greed, which can eat away at confidence and your love for self, as well as others.

Romans were strong believers in the healing properties of Rose Quartz. They believed it helped to release impurities from the body's cells and fluids. They also recommended it for treating breathing problems, headaches, aching bones and to relieve menstrual symptoms.

The Egyptians and Romans both carved face masks from the crystal. These masks were used to prevent or remove wrinkles and skin blemishes. They also believed the stone would heal scars and bruises.

The loving and calming energies of Rose Quartz are very beneficial for heart health. It is believed the energies from this stone can lower the blood pressure, helping the heart to work more efficiently. The crystal may be helpful in improving fertility, restoring sexual desire and promoting weight loss.