Minerals · common
Desert Rose
Desert Rose is a rosette-shaped gypsum or barite aggregate with sand inclusions, recognized by petal-like crystal blades.
Also known as: gypsum rose, sand rose, rosette gypsum, barite rose.
Desert Rose properties at a glance
| Type | Minerals |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | CaSO4·2H2O |
| Mohs hardness | 2 |
| Crystal system | monoclinic |
| Luster | pearly |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | Perfect |
| Fracture | Splintery to uneven |
| Specific gravity | 2.3 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Tan, Brown, Cream, White |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms in arid evaporite settings when gypsum or barite crystals grow as rosette clusters that trap sand grains.
Desert Rose specimens are common collector and souvenir minerals from arid evaporite regions.
How to identify Desert Rose
- Look for petal-like rosette blades with trapped sand grains.
- Gypsum desert roses are soft enough to scratch with a fingernail.
- Use locality and heft carefully because barite desert roses can look similar but feel denser.
Full Desert Rose identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Desert Rose vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Desert Rose.
Where Desert Rose is found
Desert Rose is most common in arid evaporite settings; exact mineral species and locality should be verified from provenance.
How much is Desert Rose worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $20 |
| Premium specimen | $150+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Collector specimens
- Decorative objects
- Educational specimens
Interesting facts
- The flower-like shape forms naturally, not by carving.
- Many desert roses are gypsum, but some are barite.
- Sand grains are commonly trapped between the crystal blades.
Care & safety
Treat Desert Rose as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Desert Rose FAQ
What is Desert Rose?
Desert Rose is a rosette-shaped gypsum or barite aggregate with sand inclusions, recognized by petal-like crystal blades.
How much is Desert Rose worth?
Entry-level Desert Rose specimens sell for around $5, a typical collector specimen for about $20, and premium pieces for $150 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Desert Rose?
Desert Rose has a Mohs hardness of 2. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
Where is Desert Rose found?
Notable sources of Desert Rose include Sahara Desert, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, USA, and Australia. Forms in arid evaporite settings when gypsum or barite crystals grow as rosette clusters that trap sand grains..
What is Desert Rose used for?
Desert Rose is used for collector specimens, decorative objects, and educational specimens.
