Desert Roses are an incredible mineral formation that takes the shape of a rose. They are also known as Gypsum roses and Sand roses! This unique mineral forms in a rosette growth pattern caused by gypsum and baryte being organically deposited in a circular pattern around sand grains. It is formed when mineral-rich water evaporates and it leaves the dissolved minerals behind to crystallize into thin, blade-like crystals. The petals are crystals flattened on the c crystallographic axis, fanning open in radiating flattening crystal clusters. 

This mineral formation is only found in arid desert regions, such as the Sonoran desert, from which we source all of our desert rose specimens! They can only form in this specific environment due to the large amount of calcium sulfate in the sandy ground and a seasonal fluctuation of water. This is why they also abundantly form in infamous deserts all around the world including the Mojave Desert, Nahimb Desert, and Sahara Desert. 

Desert Roses are usually a couple of inches in diameter but have been some clusters with rosettes that were several feet in diameter! The desert rose has a hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, but the thin petals can be delicate. We recommend using canned air to clean any desert rose specimen. Desert roses form in various earthy shades from dusty pink, cream, brown, and reddish hues.

The energetic aspect of these gypsum rosettes is just as interesting as their geological formation! They are well known for symbolizing inner truth and serenity. Desert Rose is believed to activate our crown, root, and sacral chakras, which are said to assist in focus, self-expression, and manifestation.

The calming energies and soft vibrations of Desert Roses have been used by ancient civilizations in Africa and the Middle East for thousands of years. These cultures would utilize this mineral spiritually, symbolizing resilience and strength during hard times and giving courage to keep moving forward. 

In feng shui, it is said that the best place to keep your desert rose specimens is in your workspace, by your bedside, or family room as it helps cleanse one's energy and space.

Do not use crystal healing in place of your medicine/healthcare.