mineral
Tourmalinated Quartz
Quartz with Tourmaline inclusions (SiO2 + Na(Fe,Mg,Al,Li)3Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, transparent to translucent with distinct black needle-like tourmaline crystals embedded within clear quartz. Hexagonal crystal system with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, transparent to translucent with distinct black needle-like tourmaline crystals embedded within clear quartz. Hexagonal crystal system with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed in pegmatites and hydrothermal veins where hydrothermal fluids rich in silica and boron crystallize together under high pressure and temperature.
Uses & applications
Widely used in ornamental jewelry, lapidary carvings, and metaphysical crystal collections.
Geological facts
The contrasting black needles inside the clear quartz often resemble tiny fingers or hairs, historically leading to poetic names like Venus hairstone.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by the stark contrast of opaque black tourmaline prisms trapped inside translucent white or clear quartz matrix. Found globally, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA.
