mineral
Green Rutilated Quartz
Silicon Dioxide with Actinolite inclusions (SiO2 + Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear to smoky gray quartz with green needle-like inclusions, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Clear to smoky gray quartz with green needle-like inclusions, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture, Specific gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids where actinolite or epidote crystals grew within the quartz matrix. Most commercial specimens are from the Cenozoic era.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), metaphysical practices, and as collector specimens for crystal morphology interest.
Geological facts
The green 'needles' are often mistakenly called rutile but are actually typically green actinolite or epidote. In metaphysical circles, it is often called 'Green Hair Quartz'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by observing needle-like green inclusions trapped inside translucent quartz. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and China. Collectors look for clarity in the quartz and a high density of organized needles.
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Epidote
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