A popular member of the quartz family, this jewel is prized for its beautiful translucent lustre, luster and soft rosy colour, which can range from pale pink to a deep rosy hue.
Let’s take a look at the most frequently asked questions to better understand everything there is to know about this coveted gemstone!
1. Is it an old gem or a new discovery?
Even though it seems like the rose quartz has been on the rise only recently, it actually has been used in jewellery and art for thousands of years. Rose quartz beads, dating back to 7,000 BC, were unearthed in Iraq (formerly known as Mesopotamia). This discovery suggests that rose quartz is indeed one of the most ancient gemstones known to man. It is also believed that the Assyrians, along with the Romans, were probably the first to have used this gem for crafting jewellery back in 800-600 BC.
2. What does it represent?
Throughout history, people have been enamored by the blush-hued beauty of the rose quartz and believed that it had magical powers. This gem was said to have been used by Isis in an Egyptian legend, to help her maintain her youth and beauty. On the other hand, Romans used it as a seal to signify ownership. In both Egyptian and Greek civilizations, rose quartz was often worn as a talisman for good luck.
It was also used by medical practitioners of the Middle Ages for creating healing potions.
In recent times, the rose quartz has been associated with love and is celebrated for its delicate beauty.
3. Is it rare?
Rose quartz is one of the most abundant minerals found on earth. It is commercially mined in Brazil, Madagascar, India, Mozambique, Germany, Namibia, along with South Dakota, and South Africa.
4. Is it expensive?
Although most rose quartz stones are considered to be inexpensive, those displaying deeper pink hues can be slightly more expensive as compared to the paler ones. The most valuable and rare rose quartz stones have an appealing, cloudy translucence and display asterism (star effect), while the lesser valuable ones have slight inclusions and an opaque appearance.
5. How can you tell if it’s real?
Since rose quartz is widely accessible and inexpensive, there are lesser instances of fake versions being circulated in the market. That said, imitations made out of glass are available, so it’s best to keep an eye out.
In general, real rose quartz stones often lack good transparency and will have embedded white streaks. The imitation ones, however, can be transparent and smooth, with even colour distribution, and minus any streaks. A glass imitation of rose quartz might have air bubbles, while natural rose quartz won’t.
6. Which metal does it look best with?
Most high-end rose quartz jewellery pieces are made with rose gold since it brings out the colour of this gem and gives it a rich, sophisticated appearance. While yellow gold adds a vintage touch to the piece, rose quartz set in silver or white gold will showcase stronger contrast and will be ideal for modern designs. We recommend you choose the metal basis the look you want to achieve.
Conclusion
Exquisite, affordable and abundantly available, there is no reason for not adding rose quartz to your jewellery collection. We hope that this article will help you make an informed decision when you decide to make a purchase.
