Oklahoma State Gemstone: The Rose Rock
Oklahoma boasts unique geological features and notable minerals, with the state gemstone being particularly intriguing. Oklahoma has designated two official state stones: the rose rock (barite rose) as the state rock and the hourglass selenite as the state crystal.
Rose Rock (Barite Rose)
Description: The rose rock is composed of barite crystals that form rose-like shapes, often incorporating quartz sand and iron oxide, which gives them a reddish hue. These formations are unique to Oklahoma, particularly found in the Garber Sandstone formation in central Oklahoma.
Formation: These rose-like structures formed during the Permian era, around 250 million years ago, when ocean waters covered much of Oklahoma. Barite precipitated from seawater and crystallized around quartz sand grains, creating the distinctive rose shapes.
Locations: They are primarily found in central Oklahoma, including Lincoln, Cleveland, McClain, and Garvin counties. Noble, Oklahoma, is particularly famous for these formations and hosts an annual Rose Rock Festival.
Cultural Significance: According to Cherokee legend, these rocks symbolize the blood of the braves and the tears of the maidens during the Trail of Tears (State Symbols USA) (Oklahoma Historical Society | OHS) (The University of Oklahoma).
Hourglass Selenite
Description: Hourglass selenite is a form of gypsum that contains sand and clay particles, giving it a unique hourglass shape. These crystals are transparent and can vary in size, with some reaching up to 7 inches long.
Formation: These crystals are found in the salt plains of Oklahoma, formed by the repeated flooding of seawater millions of years ago. The sand and clay particles within the crystal create the hourglass effect.
Locations: The Great Salt Plains in northwestern Oklahoma is the only place in the world where these crystals can be found.
Significance: Designated as the state crystal in 2005, hourglass selenite is a popular collectible mineral and is significant for its unique formation process and rarity (State Symbols USA) (The University of Oklahoma).
Oklahoma State Gemstone
Oklahoma's unique geological history has given rise to these distinctive state stones. The rose rock and hourglass selenite are not only significant for their rarity and beauty but also for their cultural and historical importance. Whether you're a rockhound or simply appreciate natural beauty, these gemstones offer a fascinating glimpse into Oklahoma's natural heritage.
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