Amphibole Quartz Cabochon · 14×9 mm

Triangular freeform amphibole quartz cabochon, 14×9 mm, hand-cut in our lapidary workshop from rough material from Brazil. The hornblende inclusions distributed within the quartz dye the stone a deep reddish-brown with dark areas that change in intensity depending on the angle of the light — an internal pattern that each specimen has differently and that cannot be replicated.

Piece Details

This specific piece

The concentration of hornblende inclusions is in the central area of the dome: under direct light, this dense core reveals coppery-golden flashes among the dominant reddish-brown, giving the stone an inner point of light that distinguishes this specimen from one of uniform color. The rest of the mass is cleaner quartz, which acts as a background and accentuates the dark center.

At 14×9 mm it is a compact piece: ideal for a pendant where the stone is an elegant detail, or for a ring where the color is the protagonist without the size monopolizing all the attention. The rounded triangular silhouette oriented to a point gives clear visual direction to the composition.

What mounting it works for

• Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — the rounded triangular silhouette fits well in adapted marquise bezels; cool silver contrasts with warm reddish-brown without visually competing with the stone's color.
• Minimalist rings / Small pendants with silver mounting — at 7 Mohs it withstands everyday use; its compact size makes it versatile in designs where the stone is the detail, not the central protagonist.
• Wire wrap — the small size and organic shape make it comfortable for freeform mountings in copper or fine silver; warm copper complements the reddish hue of the mineral.

Amphibole quartz in lapidary tradition

Quartz with mineral inclusions has a long history in lapidary work. In classical Rome, included quartz cabochons — with rutile, tourmaline, and amphibole — were carved for amulets and seals of authority. The hornblende varieties from Brazil arrived in European markets in the 18th century, when mining in Minas Gerais expanded. In crystal tradition, amphibole quartz is associated with grounding and inner clarity — the idea that something luminous can coexist with darkness without losing its shine, and that this coexistence is what gives depth to the stone.

The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.

How to recognize genuine amphibole quartz

Genuine amphibole quartz has irregularly distributed inclusions: under magnification, dark acicular or columnar crystals (hornblende) are seen suspended in the vitreous mass, with alternating areas of concentration and clear quartz. The color transition has three-dimensional depth — it changes with side light. Stained glass imitating amphibole quartz has flat, homogeneous color, weighs significantly less, and shows no internal structure under magnification.

Frequently asked questions

What is the origin of this quartz?

Cut in our workshop from rough material imported from Brazil. No detectable treatment; the reddish-brown color is a result of native amphibole minerals in the quartz mass.

Can it be used in an everyday ring?

Yes. With 7 Mohs, quartz withstands everyday use. We recommend bezel setting to protect the edges of the freeform and prevent direct impacts on the perimeter of the stone.

How is it cared for?

Lukewarm water and neutral soap, dried with a lint-free cloth. Avoid ultrasonics if there are visible cracks. More at jewelry care.

See also: lapidary workshop · collector cabochons · handmade rings.