mineral

Rutilated Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Clear to smoky quartz with golden or reddish needle-like inclusions, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Specific gravity: 2.65

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Mohs), Color: Clear to smoky quartz with golden or reddish needle-like inclusions, Luster: Vitreous, Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal, Specific gravity: 2.65

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites when titanium dioxide crystallizes into hair-like rutile needles within the cooling quartz. Found globally with major deposits in Brazil and Madagascar.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, lapidary arts, and as a popular collector's mineral due to its unique visual patterns.

Geological facts

The needles are called 'Venus hair quartz' or 'Cupid\'s darts'. Unlike most inclusions that reduce a gemstone's value, rutile inclusions often increase the desirability and price of quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for fine, needle-like metallic inclusions trapped inside transparent quartz. Common in rock shops; look for uniform clear quartz with dense, golden-colored needles for high quality.

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