mineral

Tourmalinated quartz sphere

Quartz (SiO₂) with black schorl tourmaline inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 7 for quartz and 7–7.5 for schorl; translucent gray to smoky-clear quartz containing black needle-like or prismatic inclusions, with vitreous luster and no visible cleavage. Quartz is trigonal; tourmaline is trigonal and commonly forms elongated crystals.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and granitic pegmatites when tourmaline crystals grow within quartz-rich fluids, usually during late-stage igneous activity. The polished sphere is human-shaped but retains natural mineral inclusions.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative sphere, lapidary material, and collector specimen; occasionally used in jewelry. Value depends on transparency, inclusion pattern, polish, and size.

Geological facts

The black inclusions are commonly schorl, an iron-rich tourmaline. Tourmalinated quartz is prized for dramatic needle, fan, or feather-like patterns and is sometimes marketed in metaphysical settings.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by testing for quartz hardness, glassy luster, and sharply defined black tourmaline needles; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.