mineral

Tourmalinated Quartz

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Schorl (NaFe2+3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)3OH)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to milky white with black needle-like inclusions; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Clear to milky white with black needle-like inclusions
Luster: Vitreous

Identified May 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Clear to milky white with black needle-like inclusions; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites when quartz and liquid tourmaline crystallize simultaneously or when tourmaline needles are enveloped by growing quartz crystals.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts, jewelry (cabochons and beads), and as a decorative display specimen for metaphysical enthusiasts.

Geological facts

The black needles are specifically the mineral Schorl, which is the most common form of tourmaline. While quartz is a silicate, tourmaline is a complex boro-silicate.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for distinct, needle-like black crystals trapped inside transparent or translucent quartz. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.

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