mineral

Quartz crystal cluster with dark tourmaline and iron staining

Quartz (SiO₂), likely with schorl tourmaline (NaFe₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Appears to be a small natural crystal aggregate: translucent to milky quartz with vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and Mohs hardness 7, alongside a dark blue-black prismatic mineral possibly schorl tourmaline (Mohs 7–7.5); reddish-brown areas suggest iron-oxide staining or included garnet.…

Identified September 1, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Quartz crystal cluster with dark tourmaline and iron staining
Scientific name: Quartz (SiO₂), likely with schorl tourmaline (NaFe₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄)
Category: mineral
Identified: September 1, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small common specimen; $50–$200+ if crystals are well formed, colorful, and locality-documented.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Quartz–tourmaline-bearing pegmatites and hydrothermal veins formed from silica- and boron-rich fluids, commonly during late-stage igneous crystallization; age depends on locality, often Precambrian to Mesozoic.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen; clear quartz may be used for ornamental objects and electronics, while tourmaline is sometimes cut as a gemstone. Small irregular pieces generally have limited commercial value.

Geological facts

Quartz–tourmaline associations are characteristic of granitic pegmatites and can indicate chemically evolved magma systems.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in pegmatites worldwide, including Brazil, Afghanistan, Madagascar, and the United States. Confirm with hardness, crystal habit, streak, and locality; a close photograph or testing is needed to distinguish tourmaline from other dark minerals.