Discovering the Gemstone Called Rosasite

Rosasite is related to the minerals malachite, calcite, and aurichalcite. In fact, it can easily be mistaken for the latter without proper testing.

The mineral occurs in the oxidized areas around zinc and copper deposits. It is mined in various regions throughout the world, including Italy, Mexico, and the United States. In the U.S. it is typically found in Arizona, California, and New Mexico.

The mineral was discovered in Italy in 1908 in the Rosas mine. It obtained its name from the location where it was found.

Unlike what its name might imply, rosasite is limited to shades of blue, green, or a mixture of both colors. Oddly enough, the color mirrors the shades of oxidation that copper takes on over time. Sometimes, striations of darker or lighter shading can be found in the stone, giving it a kind of marbleized look.

Rosasite crystals are somewhat fibrous in nature and can be either transparent or translucent depending upon where the deposit comes from. It isn't uncommon for rosasite crystals to form on top of or around malachite deposits.

While rosasite can easily be found, a lot of the material is not of gem quality and, therefore, cannot be used to make jewelry. Instead, the bulk of it is used as ornamental material including its use as landscaping decorative rock.

Gem quality rosasite is quite rare and is generally snapped up quickly by collectors. Even the crystals that make it to jewelers may sit for quite some time before it is used. Because rosasite is soft, ranking barely a four on the Mohs scale of hardness, many jewelers shy away from working with the gem.

Rosasite is never faceted. Because it generally grows in cylindrical style crystals, it is ideal for use in making beads or for making single piece pendants, or individual earrings, etc. It is rarely cut in cabochons either so anyone finding the material in that form, should grab it quickly. It could prove valuable.

The softness of it makes rosasite something that must be protected. It should never be immersed into ultra-sonic or ionic cleaners or into harsh chemicals. In fact, use of jewelry cleaners and detergents on the stone are discouraged altogether. It is best to simply wipe the stone clean with a soft polishing cloth.

Great care should be taken in storing rosasite as well. It can fade or change color if exposed to excessive heat or cold for a long period of time. The gem is also somewhat fragile and should be protected with additional packing. Box each piece individually or pouch them in individual sacks of cloth or velvet before putting them with other jewelry items.

Like most gemstones, rosasite has metaphysical properties. New age healers believe that the stone can help an individual tap into his or her inner nature, allowing them to meditate with great success. Believers supposedly can use the stone to help them gain insight not only into themselves, but also into the world in general.

Rosasite is also considered a calming stone that can be beneficial for individuals who must deal with a great deal of stress. It is also recommended for those who suffer from mood swings or depression.

Rosasite is believed to help one broaden their consciousness, their intellectual power, and memory. It is the astrological sign for Virgo.