Rose Quartz

(Alternate Birthstone for January)

Scientific:

Pink or peach colored quartz is called rose quartz. Rose quartz is in
the rock crystal family of stones. The name quartz is derived from the
Slavic word 'Kwardy' which means 'hard'. Rose tinted quartz is caused by
traces of titanium or manganese. Rose quartz tends to be cloudy,
crackled or turbid and certain varieties contain rutile (another
mineral), which may produce a star effect when cut and polished. Rose
quartz tends to be brittle; therefore large carvings may show cracks. It
is also prone to fading over time.

Crystals of rose quartz are very rare. More usually it is found in
massive form, which is used for carvings, cabochons or beads.
Transparent rose quartz material is rare as well. When available,
transparent rose quartz is sometimes faceted for use in jewelry.
Sometimes rose quartz is confused with morganite, kunzite, pink
tourmaline or pink topaz. Rose quartz is found in pegmatites. The best
material is from Madagascar but Brazil produces a greater quantity. It
is also found in Colorado, South Dakota, and Utah in the USA, the former
USSR, Scotland, India, Mozambique, Namibia, Sri Lanka and Spain.

Rose Quartz is very hard, so you can clean it with soap and water.
Keep it out of direct sunlight, as it will fade the color.

Hardness:

7

Chemical Composition:

SiO2 Silicon Dioxide

History:

There is little known historically about rose quartz. However, beads
have been found in Mesopotamia that date back to 7000 BC. It is said
that the Assyrians and the Romans were the first to use it. Rose quartz
has been found to be used in jewelry by the Assyrians in 800-600 BC. In
ancient Rome, rose quartz was popular for making seals. These seals were
used in clay or various dyes to show ownership or identify authors.

Myth:

Traditionally, babies have been given rose quartz to help them during
their transformation from the spirit world to their physical body. The
gentle pink rays of rose quartz produce a nurturing, calming and gentle
effect, which helps them adjust to their new environment.

Metaphysical:

Rose quartz is the most popular healing stone. It is the stone of
unconditional love and healing. If there has ever been a stone
specifically for Valentine's Day, then rose quartz is it. Rose quartz is
soothing, calming, and comforting to those who need it. This stone is
non-judgmental, which is why it is such a powerful healing stone. This
stone is said to heal broken hearts as well as emotional injuries. Rose
quartz definitely improves the energy in both the person it belongs to
and the space it is in. The gentle glow of the pink stone radiates
nurturing love and universal harmony. Rose quartz's gentle energy
insures fertility and helps in avoiding miscarriages. It supports the
heart and is an effective healer in constrictive heart problems. It is
good to use after operations or dental surgery. It is said to help clear
the complexion as well as prevent wrinkles. Rose quartz is recommended
for weight loss because it helps balance the self, as well as teaches
self-love to the!
wearer.

Plant rose quartz in your garden. The plant kingdom can feel your
intentions and radiates them back to you.

Magickal Glade archives: Gail`s Rock of the Week - Rose Quartz