mineral
Polished golden rutile quartz
Rutilated quartz (SiO₂ containing inclusions of rutile, TiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 7 (rutile ~6–6.5); translucent gray-brown to honey body with golden-brown fibrous inclusions, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. The pictured specimen is a shaped, polished cabochon.
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Physical properties
Hardness 7 (rutile ~6–6.5); translucent gray-brown to honey body with golden-brown fibrous inclusions, vitreous luster, and conchoidal fracture. The pictured specimen is a shaped, polished cabochon.
Formation & geological history
Forms when rutile needles crystallize within quartz during hydrothermal or metamorphic growth, commonly in cavities and veins; ages vary from Paleozoic to younger depending on deposit.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and collector specimens; attractive chatoyant or needle patterns can make it a gemstone.
Geological facts
The inclusions are typically acicular rutile crystals, though similar-looking brown inclusions may be goethite or hematite. Dense needle patterns can create a striking golden sheen.
Field identification & locations
Identify by testing quartz hardness and observing sharp internal needles under magnification; avoid confusing it with iron-stained quartz or sagenite agate. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, India, and Pakistan.
