Rutilated Quartz
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Mineral NameRutilated Quartz
Chemical FormulaSiO2 (with TiO2 inclusions)
Mohs Hardness7
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak ColorWhite
CleavageNone
FractureConchoidal
Specific Gravity2.65
Colorscolorless, transparent, silvery, golden
TransparencyTransparent
Type LocalityBrazil
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, collector's specimens, ornamental
Associated MineralsQuartz, Rutile
Rarityuncommon
Description
A transparent, faceted quartz crystal exhibiting abundant fine, needle-like inclusions of rutile, which appear silvery and create intricate patterns within the host mineral.
Geological Context
Rutilated quartz typically forms in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, where quartz crystallizes around pre-existing or co-crystallizing rutile needles under specific pressure and temperature conditions.
