Rochlitz is situated in the Natural Region Sächsisches Lössgefilde (Saxon Loess country) and its sub-region Mulde-Lösshügelland (Mulde Loess hill country). Rochlitzer Berg (ca. 349 m (NHN)) is of Rotliegend volcanic origin (latest Carboniferous to Guadalupian) and consists to a large extent of so-called Rochlitzer Porphyr, a rhyolitic tuff or ignimbrite. Due to its colour and structure, this rock is used in representative buildings in the wider region and is mined in deep quarries. Pleistocene sediments (sand, gravel) are excavated in the surroundings of the town.