mineral
Titanium Aura Quartz (Bismuth-coated Druzy)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Titanium/Metal vapor coating
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Iridescent multicolor (rainbow), Luster: Vitreous to metallic, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal, Specific Gravity: 2.65
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale), Color: Iridescent multicolor (rainbow), Luster: Vitreous to metallic, Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), Cleavage: None/Conchoidal, Specific Gravity: 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed naturally as druzy quartz in hydrothermal veins. The iridescent coating is an anthropogenic (man-made) process where quartz is placed in a vacuum chamber and permanently bonded with vaporized titanium or gold via an electrostatic charge.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry making, wire wrapping, lapidary arts, and as a decorative collector's specimen.
Geological facts
Also known as 'Rainbow Aura Quartz'. While the crystal base is natural, the color is the result of thin-film interference, the same physics principle that makes oil on water or soap bubbles look like rainbows.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field as small quartz crystals (druzy) on a matrix. Common locations for the base quartz include Brazil, Arkansas, and Madagascar. Collectors identify 'aura' versions by the non-natural, extreme metallic rainbow sheen that does not wash off.
