Oklahoma State Stone: Discover the Unique Rose Rocks and Hourglass Selenite Crystals

What is the Oklahoma state stone?

The official state stone of Oklahoma is the Rose Rock (Barite Rose). Additionally, Oklahoma has an official state crystal, the Hourglass Selenite Crystal, which is known for its unique hourglass-shaped inclusions found in the salt plains of Oklahoma.

Oklahoma is home to some of the most unique geological formations in the United States. The state’s official stone, the Rose Rock, and its official crystal, the Hourglass Selenite, are two such treasures that tell a fascinating story of natural history and cultural significance. In this guide, we’ll explore the origins, significance, and where you can find these unique stones in Oklahoma.

1. Rose Rock: Oklahoma’s State Stone

The Rose Rock, officially known as Barite Rose, was designated as Oklahoma’s state rock in 1968. These stones are composed of barite (barium sulfate) crystals that naturally form into rosette-like shapes. The red color of the stones is due to the presence of iron oxide in the soil, giving them a distinct appearance​.

How Rose Rock Forms:

Rose rocks formed over 250 million years ago during the Permian period when ocean waters covered much of Oklahoma. Barite precipitated from seawater and crystallized around quartz sand grains, creating the rose-like structures that we see today​.

Cultural Significance of Rose Rock:

According to Cherokee legend, these stones represent the blood of Native American warriors and the tears of maidens during the Trail of Tears, the forced relocation of Native Americans to Oklahoma. This adds a deep cultural and emotional significance to the rose rock, particularly within Native American communities​.

Where to Find Rose Rock:

The best place to find rose rocks is in central Oklahoma, particularly around the town of Noble, which is known as the "Rose Rock Capital of the World." There are also several festivals and events that celebrate this unique geological formation.

2. Hourglass Selenite Crystal: Oklahoma’s State Crystal

In addition to the Rose Rock, Oklahoma has an official state crystal, the Hourglass Selenite, which was designated in 2005. This crystal is found in the salt plains of northwestern Oklahoma and is famous for its distinctive hourglass-shaped inclusions​.

How Hourglass Selenite Forms:

Selenite is a crystallized form of gypsum (hydrous calcium sulfate). The hourglass shape inside the crystal is formed by sand and clay particles that are trapped as the crystal grows. These unique crystals can grow up to seven inches long and weigh as much as 38 pounds​.

Where to Find Selenite:

The best place to find hourglass selenite crystals is on the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in Alfalfa County, Oklahoma. This area is open to the public for crystal hunting, and it’s the only place in the world where hourglass selenite crystals are found​).

Oklahoma’s state stone and crystal, the Rose Rock and Hourglass Selenite, are not only geological marvels but also hold significant cultural and historical importance. Whether you’re a rockhound looking to add to your collection or a history enthusiast interested in the stories these stones tell, Oklahoma offers a unique opportunity to explore these natural wonders. Plan your visit to central Oklahoma or the Salt Plains to discover these fascinating formations for yourself.