Gypsum Rose Growth

A gypsum rose, also known as a desert rose.

Gypsum roses are crystal structures, primarily made of the minerals gypsum, barite and calcium sulfate. As the gypsum rose grows, sand becomes trapped in the rose's crystal "petals," giving them a frosted appearance and making them rough to the touch.

Gypsum Rose Formation

Gypsum roses form in desert conditions, in areas where shallow pools of mineral-rich water have evaporated. They're commonly found in the deserts of the Middle East, as well as Namibia, Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Unique Roses

Small desert roses, packaged to sell.

Each gypsum rose grows slightly differently, depending on the concentration of minerals. Some gypsum roses grow in a random manner, while others really do resemble roses.

Where To Find Them

You can find gypsum roses below the sand's surface, at a depth between 1 to 4 feet. But you might not have to dig at all: In some desert areas, wind erodes away the sand over time, bringing the desert roses to the surface.

By Any Other Name

Gypsum roses go by a variety of different names, including desert roses, sandstones, sand roses, selenite roses and gypsum rosettes.

Fun Facts

Gypsum roses form relatively quickly---between tens and hundreds of years---and can grow in formations up to 11 meters long.

References

• Earlham.edu: Gypsum Rosette
• Minerals.net: The Mineral Gypsum