mineral

Phantom Quartz (Chlorite Inclusion)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Chlorite (Mg,Fe,Al)6(Si,Al)4O10(OH)8

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to white base with green or earthy-red internal 'ghost' shapes; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins through a multi-stage process where crystal growth is interrupted and minerals like chlorite settle on the surface. Later, growth resumes, trapping the mineral layer inside. These specimens can range from millions to over a billion years old.

Uses & applications

Majorly popular for mineral collecting, metaphysical use, jewelry making (cabochon or pendants), and decorative display specimens.

Geological facts

A phantom crystal represents the 'soul' or history of the crystal. The red or green shapes inside are essentially frozen moments in time where the crystal stopped growing for hundreds or thousands of years before starting again.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for standard hexagonal quartz points that contain visible internal outlines or distinct 'triangles' of green or reddish sediment. Common locations include Brazil, the Ural Mountains in Russia, and the United States (Arkansas and Nevada).

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