mineral

Titanium Quartz (Rough)

Titanium-included Silicon Dioxide (SiO2 + Ti)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Brownish-tan to smoky grey with potential internal metallic rutilations; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65.

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified February 14, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous or metamorphic environments through hydrothermal processes where titanium-rich fluids (often rutile) are trapped within cooling silica. The specimen appears to be raw ('brut') or water-worn.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for lapidary work, jewelry making (cabochons), and as a collector's specimen. In industry, pure quartz is used for electronics and glassmaking, though this specific variety is ornamental.

Geological facts

The label 'quartz titane brut' is French for raw titanium quartz. When titanium occurs as needle-like inclusions within quartz, it is known as rutilated quartz. If the titanium is bonded to the surface via a vacuum process, it is called 'Aura Quartz,' though this specimen appears natural.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (scratches glass), lack of cleavage, and characteristic inclusions. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the Swiss Alps. Collectors should look for internal 'needles' or smoky coloration indicating mineral impurities.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral