mineral

Tourmalinated quartz crystal point

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 7; colorless to milky-white quartz with vitreous luster, hexagonal crystal structure, and no cleavage. The black, needle-like inclusions are tourmaline; the specimen appears polished or shaped with a pointed termination.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when quartz crystallizes in silica-rich hydrothermal veins or pegmatites, enclosing earlier or simultaneous tourmaline needles. Such pegmatites commonly formed during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary, ornamental, and metaphysical specimen; larger clear pieces may be cut for display, while tourmalinated quartz is rarely used for fine jewelry.

Geological facts

Tourmaline inclusions can produce striking geometric patterns and are often preserved inside otherwise transparent quartz. Quartz commonly forms six-sided prisms, though this piece has been artificially shaped.

Field identification & locations

Identify by glassy quartz, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, conchoidal fracture, and embedded black prismatic needles; distinguish from black rutile by tourmaline’s thicker, less golden-black appearance. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, and the United States.