gemstone

Polished rutilated quartz cabochon

Quartz (SiO₂) with rutile inclusions (TiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 7; transparent to translucent, vitreous luster, rounded cabochon, with golden needle-like rutile inclusions and no visible cleavage. Quartz is trigonal; specific gravity about 2.65, though inclusions may raise it slightly.

Identified August 23, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms mainly in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites when rutile crystals grow inside quartz during crystallization, commonly in Paleozoic to younger host rocks. The domed polish is human-made, but the material is geological.

Uses & applications

Used as a collectible and ornamental gemstone in cabochons, pendants, and rings; attractive specimens may be marketed as “Venus hair” or “golden rutilated quartz.”

Geological facts

The visible golden needles are rutile, a titanium-oxide mineral, not internal cracks; crossed or dense needle patterns can create attractive chatoyancy or star-like effects.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its glassy quartz body and natural-looking golden needle inclusions; verify with hardness and magnification, while avoiding scratch tests on the polished face. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, and Australia.