This is a VERY unique specimen of rutile. Here are rutile crystals, which formed both in and out of quartz, on top of a layer of lustrous hematite, on top of a quartz matrix. The photos do not do this specimen justice. It is hard to not keep this one for ourselves!
Hematite is an iron oxide found virtually everywhere on Earth. This mineral is naturally gray or black in color and contains the same crystal structure as the mineral corundum. It gets its name from the Greek word "haima", meaning blood. This blood color comes from the wear off of iron over time. Hematite has been spotted in multiple deposits on Mars and can be magnetized through laboratory processes.
Rutilated Quartz is a variety of quartz that contains inclusions of rutile. Its name is derived from the German word "quarz" meaning hard. Quartz can form in trigonal or hexagonal crystal systems depending on the temperature during formation. Crystallized quartz ideally forms a six-sided crystal terminating with six-sided pyramids. Rutile is a mineral most commonly found alongside other minerals under both high temperature and pressure. The name rutile comes from the Latin word "rutilus", meaning red, and was first described in the early 1800s. Rutile found in quartz can form is a wide range of colors including gold, silver, orange, red, and even black. They occasionally form star-like patterns, further adding to their uniqueness.
Rutilated Quartz is a great stone for increasing intuition and self-reliance. It symbolizes unity and transformation.
Hematite is said to absorb and dispel negativity while stimulating concentration and focus. Considered a grounding stone, hematite helps bring balance to the body and mind.
Chemical Formula: SiO₂ & TiO₂ Fe2O3
Size: 1.9 x 1.6 in
Weight: 2.4 oz
Location: Novo Horizonte, Brazil
You will receive the specimen pictured. Colors may vary based on screen size and resolution.