Desert Rose is an unusual mineral that can be found in dunes. Outwardly, it really resembles a blossoming flower bud. Where such a miracle of nature comes from, we learn from the article.

Why is the stone called "Desert Rose"

The stone is called the Desert Rose for several reasons:

  • the mineral can only be found in deserts;
  • externally, the stone is very reminiscent of a rose.

Of course, he is far from the original of the flower. Significantly different color. The mineral has several shades (it all depends on the color of sand in the desert). As a rule, these are beige or yellowish tones. In rare cases, you can find white (desert of Argentina) and black minerals (Tunisia).

The size of the stone may also vary. The crystals of which it consists are mostly small. Due to this, the mineral in diameter reaches only 2-3 cm. But there are cases in history when there were “Desert Roses” larger than 25 cm. Such unusual giant stones were found in the Sahara desert.

The petals of Desert Roses are rather fragile, but at the same time as sharp as a knife blade. This is due to the large amount of salt that is in the composition. You need to be extremely careful with them so as not to get hurt.

Formation and deposit feature

Many are interested in how the Desert Rose is formed. Many myths and legends are associated with this. But scientists have long uncovered the secret of the appearance of an unusual mineral, explaining everything from a scientific point of view.

In order for a stone to form, certain favorable conditions must be created in the desert. The main thing in this process is moisture. After precipitation, sediments are quickly absorbed into the soil, which contains a large content of sand and gypsum.

Under the scorching sun, the liquid evaporates, gypsum crystals form, which have an unusual, twisted shape. In addition, sand settles on them, it gives the mineral velvety.

"Desert Rose" is under a layer of sand, appears on the surface only after sandstorms. When interacting with air and wind, it may bloom a little. This interesting and amazing process is possible due to sulfates, which are found in large quantities in the mineral.

Stone "Desert Rose" is found in Egypt, Tunisia, the deserts of Argentina, Algeria. Since the minerals are located under the sand (1-2 m) local even organize special expeditions for their extraction. The stone is in great demand among tourists, so a real hunt is open for it.

The magical properties of the mineral

Locals perceive the stone "Desert Rose" is not at all like tourists. For them, this is not just a beautiful souvenir, but also a mineral that is filled with special strength.

According to many beliefs, the magical properties of stone are the deliverance of a person from pride. Locals believe that if you give the mineral to a proud person, you will create a life situation in which he realizes that you can’t put yourself “above all”.

In addition, there are legends in African countries that the stone was created by a lover who walked in the desert in search of a cure for his soulmate. His tears wet the sand, and the Desert Rose appeared.

That is why the mineral symbolizes love and fidelity. The parents of the girl who is getting married present a stone to her daughter so that her marriage is strong and prosperous.

And it is also believed that if a girl cannot get married, it is enough to get a stone and ask him about the groom, he will certainly appear soon.

"Desert Rose" has healing properties. Many believe that with fractures the stone should be next to the patient’s bed. Allegedly, the bones grow together faster.

Interesting Facts

“Desert Rose” is an unusual stone, because it is made by nature itself. That is why many legends hang around the mineral.

Some interesting facts to know about:

  1. Locals do not always call the stone "Desert Rose." The second popular name is “Rose of the Sands”.
  2. Mineral cannot be exported. If it is found at customs, a fine will be issued. But at the same time there is the so-called "black market". The stone can be seen in Europe and America. Before Valentine's Day, he is in great demand.
  3. The mineral is most suitable for the following zodiac signs: Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aries and Leo.
  4. In some countries, it is believed that the mineral protects the house from witches and sorcerers. And yellow stones help communicate with the souls of the dead.
  5. "Desert Rose" is in great demand. Therefore, some jewelers frame the stone in silver or gold. Such jewelry looks pretty interesting.

Desert Rose is a mineral that leaves no one indifferent. It is not only beautiful, but also has magical properties (according to the beliefs of the local population). Not every desert can find such a treasure. For its appearance, favorable conditions are needed: moisture, the presence of gypsum in the sand.