Rose quartz is a gemstone with a pink hue.
An igneous mineral, rose quartz develops deep within the crust of the earth. It results from the solidification of molten rock. Over time, large masses of magma within the earth slowly migrate upward toward the earth's surface, slowly cooling in temperature as they rise. Magma may flow into rocks and crevices while continuing to cool. These magma intrusions are called pegmatites. Some of the magma crystallizes, and solid minerals, including rose quartz crystals, form in the pegmatites.
Meaning of Rose Quartz
Rose quartz means love; it is considered the gemstone of love, and is associated with the heart chakra. It can ease the pain of a broken or grieving heart, and promote feelings of open-heartedness, love and well being, according to the online Gemstone Dictionary. Those who practice alternative healing therapies may advocate wearing or carrying rose quartz to reap its benefits to the heart and heart-related emotions, and to encourage love to come into its wearer's life.
Appearance of Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is thus named because it is pink in color. Rose quartz may range from a very pale, almost undetectable pink to a deep, vibrant pink. It has a somewhat cloudy appearance, which is common to all types of quartz, rather than a crystalline or perfectly transparent quality. Rose quartz stones can range in size from a few millimeters to many inches.
Desirable Qualities of Rose Quartz
Much of the rose quartz sold today has been dyed to enhance its color; rose quartz is more desirable if it is not dyed and has a naturally beautiful color. The desirability of rose quartz is also related to its degree of clarity; the clearer the better. Some rose quartz stones have naturally occurring star formations within them. These stones, known as star rose quartz, are quite desirable.
Origins of Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is a naturally product of the earth. It is an igneous mineral that forms deep inside the earth's crust. Rose quartz crystals form in molten rock, or magma, as it flows and gradually cools and solidifies beneath the surface of the earth. Much of the rose quartz available today is mined in Brazil.
Uses of Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is primarily used to fashion functional, wearable or talismanic objects. For example, large, heavy pieces of rose quartz may be used functionally--and decoratively--as bookends. Rose quartz is used to make such wearable adornments as rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, and beads. Polished rose quartz pieces in varying sizes and shapes are used as talismanic trinkets, and carried or kept by those who believe in the symbolic meaning or the healing powers of this gemstone.
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