Rutilated quartz cabochon with copper-colored rutile needles in a rounded teardrop shape, 23.4 × 10.3 × 5.5 mm. The needles fan out from the base, catching the light with every change of angle on the transparent quartz. Carved in our workshop from a rough block. Untreated.
Item details
| Mineral |
Rutilated Quartz (quartz with copper-colored rutile inclusions) |
| Dimensions |
23.4 × 10.3 × 5.5 mm |
| Shape and back |
Rounded teardrop, flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
7 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Brazil (wholesale lapidary market) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item type |
Unique piece |
This specific piece
The rutile in this piece has an intense copper tone—warmer than gold, denser than silver—and the needles grow in a radial arrangement starting from the base of the cabochon and fanning out towards the wider part of the teardrop. Under direct light, the inclusions shine with that metallic copper tone that makes rutilated quartz so sought after by jewelers and collectors.
The lapidary decision was to maintain the depth at 5.5 mm to optimize light transmission through the quartz: a thicker cabochon would have dulled the needles. This thickness enhances them without sacrificing the transparency of the host.
How rutile inclusions are formed
Rutile (TiO₂) crystallizes within quartz as both form at high temperatures in hydrothermal veins or pegmatites. The needles become trapped in the quartz structure as it cools; the color varies depending on the concentration of titanium and the presence of iron: golden, reddish, copper, silvery. Quartz acts as a natural display case thanks to its transparency and 7 Mohs hardness.
What mounting it works for
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Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — With Mohs 7, it perfectly withstands the pressure of a bezel. The teardrop profile is ideal for pendants with an integrated bail; the copper tone of the rutile complements both silver and yellow gold.
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Statement ring — The elongated teardrop silhouette works as a center stone for a ring; the jeweler builds the bezel adapting it to the piece.
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Wire wrap — The flat back allows for a clean wrap; copper or bronze wire enhances the tone of the rutile needles.
Rutilated quartz in lapidary tradition
Rutilated quartz was known in medieval Europe as "Cupid's arrow" or "Venus's hair." Medieval Arab lapidaries described it as golden rain trapped in crystal. The copper variety is typical of Brazilian outcrops where the iron concentration in the rutile produces that characteristic coppery tone.
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 rutilated quartz
Genuine rutile needles are three-dimensional: when the stone is rotated, their angle changes relative to the surface. Printed imitations show flat patterns. Genuine quartz feels cool and cannot be scratched with a fingernail. Real rutile has its own metallic reflection visible under grazing light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rutile needles delicate or can they break?
Rutile is encapsulated within quartz (Mohs 7), which acts as natural protection. The needles are not accessible from the outside and do not break with normal use. The only precaution is to avoid direct impacts that could fracture the quartz in the area of highest inclusion density.
Can the copper color of the rutile change over time?
No. The color is intrinsic to the crystal structure of rutile with iron impurities; it is not a surface dye or an applied layer. The copper tone you see in the photos is permanent.
How do I care for this cabochon?
Clean with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Without a setting, it withstands daily use well (Mohs 7). If set, avoid prolonged ultrasonic cleaning. More information on caring for your jewelry.
What are the exact measurements?
23.4 × 10.3 × 5.5 mm. As it is hand-cut, there may be a variation of ±0.5 mm in any dimension.
More about this mineral: properties and uses of rutilated quartz. See also: cabochons · lapidary collection.
