Pink Opal

Pink Opal Crystals

Pink Opal is a hydrated silica mineraloid with the formula SiO₂·nH₂O. Unlike precious opal, pink opal is classified as "common opal" — it does not display play-of-color but instead features a beautiful opaque-to-translucent body in shades of blush, rose, and bubblegum pink. It is amorphous (lacking a crystal structure), registers 5.5–6 on the Mohs hardness scale, and is sourced almost exclusively from the Andes Mountains of Peru, where it is considered the national stone.

Peruvian pink opal forms in volcanic host rock and gets its color from trace inclusions of organic compounds called quinones, as well as from palygorskite, a fibrous clay mineral. The Incas are believed to have valued pink opal, and it has been mined in Peru for centuries. Among collectors, pink opal is prized for its soft, candy-like color palette and its excellent ability to take a smooth polish. Higher-quality material is more uniformly colored and free of matrix inclusions, though many collectors appreciate the natural patterning that matrix provides.

Our pink opal collection includes tumbled stones, palm stones, polished spheres, hearts, freeforms, bracelets, and raw specimens. Browse related stones in our Opal collection, or explore similar soft-toned minerals like Rose Quartz and Rhodonite. For travel-friendly pieces, see our Palm Stones and Tumbled Stones collections. Free shipping on orders over $150.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pink opal?

Pink opal is a variety of common opal found primarily in Peru. It is an amorphous hydrated silica mineraloid that lacks the play-of-color seen in precious opal, instead displaying a solid opaque-to-translucent pink body color ranging from soft blush to vivid bubblegum.

What gives pink opal its color?

The pink color comes from trace inclusions of quinones (organic compounds) and palygorskite, a fibrous clay mineral, within the silica matrix. The exact shade depends on the concentration and distribution of these inclusions.

Where does pink opal come from?

Nearly all gem-quality pink opal comes from the Andes Mountains of Peru, where it forms in volcanic host rock. Peru considers it a national stone. Minor deposits exist in Australia and Mexico, but Peruvian material dominates the market.

How hard is pink opal?

Pink opal registers 5.5–6 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for jewelry and polished display pieces but softer than quartz varieties. It should be stored separately from harder stones to avoid scratching.

What is the difference between pink opal and rose quartz?

Pink opal is an amorphous silica mineraloid (no crystal structure), while rose quartz is crystalline silicon dioxide. Pink opal is typically more opaque with a creamier texture, while rose quartz is translucent with a glassy luster. They are chemically related but structurally distinct minerals.