Mineral
Tourmalinated Quartz
SiO2 with NaFe3+3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4 inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Mohs scale) for the quartz matrix. Color: Transparent to translucent clear or milky quartz with black needle-like inclusions. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (quartz) with trigonal inclusions (tourmaline). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale) for the quartz matrix
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale) for the quartz matrix. Color: Transparent to translucent clear or milky quartz with black needle-like inclusions. Luster: Vitreous. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (quartz) with trigonal inclusions (tourmaline). Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins where both silica-rich and boron-rich fluids crystallize together. The schorl (black tourmaline) needles grow in the cavity before or alongside the quartz.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as a lapidary stone, carved into cabochons, pendants, and beads. Also collected by mineral enthusiasts.
Geological facts
The black needles are typically Schorl, the most common variety of tourmaline.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for clear to milky quartz with distinct, opaque black needle-like inclusions passing through it. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and parts of the USA.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary