Rose quartz is found in almost any crystal collection; however, pink amethyst, as it was discovered in 2017, may not be found in as many.
While these stones have similar compositions, as well as colors, you may not be able to tell the true difference from afar if you’re still considering yourself a crystal rookie.
📸 Follow my INSTAGRAM for updated inventory announcements!
Both stones are a pink-colored quartz, where rose quartz is very common, however, pink amethyst is more of a rarer stone. These stones are similar in many regards, but there are differences as well, which we will explore below.
What is the difference between amethyst and rose quartz?
Color
All quartz, including rose quartz and pink amethyst, is made up of the elements, such as silica and sodium. The main difference here is how they get its color. Pure quartz will be clear, whereas other quartz with any sort of impurity will get their color. Also, when exposed to the right conditions, such as radiation (heat), the reaction can change the color, too.
Both crystals are pink in color, but a rose quartz crystal will be more of a pale pink with white swirls, whereas pink amethyst will more of a faded pink, almost as if it’s dusty looking. The reason rose quartz is pale in color is due to the titanium, manganese and iron deposits entering the crystals as it forms. The iron gives rose quartz its swirl shapes, which appear white.
Pink amethyst, on the other hand, gets its pink color from the hematite penetrating the stone as it formed.
Composition
Each stone is pink in color and the crystal structure will be similar, as they are both members of the quartz mineral group, as explained above.
As both are quartz stones, the chemical formula for both is silicon dioxide. However, pink amethyst will form when the amethyst contains hematite impurities, making it more of a pink stone that closely resembles that of rose quartz than amethyst.
Both can have swirls as well, but the colors and composition are different. The swirl colors between the two will be different, as rose quartz will be a pale pink whereas pink amethyst will be more of a darker red.
Hardness
Both are considered quartz so they both are a 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which measures the stone’s hardness by seeing how scratch resistant it is. The higher the number, the more scratch resistant it is.
As these stones rate higher, they can withstand the sun, water and salt. However, as with any crystals, it’s always a good idea to avoid these for prolonged periods, as they can cause the colors to fade. Also, since iron does exist, this can lead to rusting if soaked for a long duration. A slight rinse is always okay to clean your stones.
Mining Locations
Pink amethyst isn’t as common as rose quartz, so you won’t find it in as many mines. In fact, you can only find it in one place in the world. Right now, pink amethyst is only mined in Patagonia, Argentina, particularly the El-Chiquita mine, which is an area between Chile and Argentina. Pink amethyst does not come from Brazil, at least for now.
Rose quartz can be commonly found in India, Madagascar, Namibia and South Africa; however, smaller deposits have been found in many other parts of the world such as Australia, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and even the United States.
Both gemstones are found in geodes formed alongside other quartz rocks. These crystals are dug out of the ground as geodes and then broken up to find the crystals growing inside the hollow center.
➡️ Looking for PINK AMETHYST OR ROSE QUARTZ? Check out my Etsy or Shop
Patterns
A natural pink amethyst crystal won’t be consistent and will usually have uneven coloring, ranging from a pale color to something more of a peach. Imperfections are expected like most quartz stones. If you were to purchase pink amethyst, many collectors prefer more of a darker color. Pink amethyst will be shiny on the outside but cloudy on the inside due to iron impurities.
Rose quartz will always be a pink hue, mostly with uneven colors, formations and shapes. Like pink amethyst, imperfections can be expected, too.
Chakra association
Both stones are said to help balance your physical energies as well as cleanse your mental state. These high frequencies are used to stimulate your third eye, heart chakra, and crown chakra; however, it’s closely linked to your heart chakra, as both are closely associated with your heart and love.
Birthstones
Rose quartz is a January birthstone, and it’s often given as a gift to bring good health, love and happiness. As it’s a stone of love, it may help with relationships.
Amethyst is the official stone of February, and pink amethyst is often lumped in since it’s considered “amethyst,” even though it’s not purple. Since it has only been discovered as of late, it hasn’t been associated with a birth month just yet. If you want to choose, however, February is your best option.
Metaphysical properties
Pink amethyst is said to be a very calming and meditative stone, which may help promote balance, calmness and peace. It’s highly linked to heart and love, enabling you to see your life from a higher perspective. It’s a gentle energy, but it’s more powerful than most stones. Consider this stone if you’re looking for one to help you love and accept one another in your life.
Pink amethyst is good for comfort, stress relief and increased intuition.
Rose quartz is also associated with love, as it’s said to help emit nurturing and loving energy. It’s closely related to the heart chakra, helping you with everything “heart” related. Rose quartz is best for unconditional love.
People have been using rose quartz dating back to Egyptian times when mummies were found buried with jewelry made from the material. It was believed that they used the crystal as an anti-aging remedy, and it’s the reason you find them as face rollers today.
Rose quartz is good for unconditional love, relationships and security.
Is pink amethyst rarer than rose quartz?
Yes!
Pink amethyst is more expensive, mainly due to the colors as well as its rarity. It’s still affordable, however, you will find that rose quartz, no matter how you purchase it, will be much cheaper than pink amethyst.
To put it in perspective, a smaller tumbled rose quartz geode can cost less than $15, whereas a freeform and sphere can cost up to $80, depending on the size. Pink amethyst, however, can be about double of what you would pay for rose quartz.
Like anything, what you pay will greatly depend on where you purchase it from.
Are there similarities between the two?
Yes, there are quite a few, including:
- both belong to the quartz family
- are pale pink in color
- both linked to the heart chakra
- measure a 7 on the Mohs Scale (MOHS)
- become opaque when tumbled
- found in jewelry and as crystal pieces such as freeforms, etc
- both are semi-precious gemstones
Is it okay to put rose quartz and pink amethyst together?
Yes, it’s absolutely fine to put rose quartz and pink amethyst together. In fact, many people do so to create a “synergistic” effect.
As you can see above, both have varying qualities, particularly when it comes to love, balance and compassion. When you combine the two, you’re able to enhance the effects and create a more powerful vibration.
Whenever you use two crystals together, it’s important to cleanse them frequently so that the energy remains strong. You can do this by setting the crystals under the full moon or rinsing them with soapy water. Sage or palo santo can work, too.
⬇️ Join my e-mail newsletter below for special offers and updates ⬇️