Earth Treasures: Rose quartz

By Chisom Ibemere
Rose quartz has been in existence with a rich history dating back over 7,000 years. Its first discovery was in the early Roman and Greek civilizations, where it was believed to have healing powers. The Egyptians also valued rose quartz, believing it to have anti-aging properties. The stone has been used in religious and ceremonial practices in India and Tibet. It also became popular in the Western world for its beauty and romantic associations.
Rose quartz may be seen in many countries if the world which may include Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, India, and the United States. The largest production of rose quartz is in Brazil.
Rose quartz has a beautiful pink colour and transparent which makes it to be used mainly for decorative purposes. It is mostly used in jewellery, carvings, and home decor. It is also believed to have healing properties and is used in alternative medicine practices.
Rose quartz is believed to help with emotional healing, promote self-love and compassion, and provide comfort in times of grief or heartache. It occurs in abundance in many places around the world and basically found in pegmatites and is often associated with other minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica.
Rose quartz is a variety of quartz in which its pink colour comes from traces of titanium, iron, or manganese. It has a mohs hardness of 7, making it fairly durable and suitable for use in jewellery. It has a vitreous lustre and a white streak.
Rose quartz is a popular and widely available stone, making it relatively affordable. However, high-quality stones with intense colour and clarity can command a higher price. The global market for rose quartz is driven by demand from the jewellery industry, particularly in countries such as China, India, and the United States.
Rose quartz may be found in a few locations in Nigeria which include Jos plateau and Ajaokuta area of Kogi State. Though, the production and export of rose quartz in Nigeria are not commercially significant, and no established mining operations for the mineral in the country.