Generally, as the name suggests, a very delicate soft pink, rose quartz is always somewhat milky rather than transparent, and varies in color from an off-white pink to a warm rose-pink color. The pink color is created by the inclusion of manganese and sometimes titanium in the quartz rock.

Until recently, rose quartz was thought to be found only in massive forms – in large deposits and veins – but it has now also been found in Brazil and Madagascar. Some rose quartz specimens are asterated – that is showing a star of light reflected in the stone caused by impurities.

The early Chinese used rose quartz for carvings of the Goddess of Peace as the color was thought to reflect her gentleness and wisdom. Today the stone is used extensively in the manufacture of necklaces, pendants and small sculptured ornaments. Its color is often imitated in glass, but air bubbles – usually clearly visible under a lens – easily prove that it is not genuine.

Rose quartz is said to produce a restful, cooling energy that will restore calmness, balance and clarity to the emotions, and is considered excellent for healing emotional :wounds:. Not surprisingly, because of these properties, it is also used to relieve burns and blisters caused by heat. It is considered helpful in releasing impurities in the cells of the body, and when placed on the reflex points or the acupuncture/ acupressure points for the heart and lungs, it is thought to be particularly beneficial to these organs.