mineral

Quartz with Tourmaline Inclusions

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Schorl (NaFe2+3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)4) inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Clear or white quartz crystal matrix with contrasting black needle-like or specked tourmaline inclusions. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified July 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites where silica-rich fluids crystallized over millions of years, trapping black tourmaline (schorl) crystals inside or on the surface of the growing quartz host during various geological eras.

Uses & applications

Popular in crystal healing, mineral collecting, lapidary arts, wire-wrapped jewelry, and decorative display pieces.

Geological facts

Tourmaline-inetailed quartz is often referred to affectionately as 'tourmalinated quartz' when the needles are fully enclosed, though surface-specked variations like this create unique visual textures reminiscent of starry nights.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by transparent to translucent quartz crystals dotted or crossed with opaque black tourmaline. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States, and the Alps.