Elongated oval cabochon of transparent quartz with green epidote inclusions, 24 × 11 × 4 mm. The epidote formations create dendritic structures visible to the naked eye: small prismatic crystals floating in the vitreous quartz matrix. Hand-cut in our lapidary workshop.
Item Details
| Mineral |
Quartz with epidote inclusion (calcium-aluminum-iron silicate) |
| Dimensions |
24 × 11 × 4 mm |
| Shape and back |
Elongated oval, freeform; flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished |
| Hardness |
7 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Brazil |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Item type |
Unique piece |
This specific piece
The epidote inclusions form a dendritic cluster of bottle-green hues with ochre flashes at the edges of each crystal. The quartz matrix is semi-transparent: it gently filters light and allows the formations to be seen in depth, creating a window effect into the stone. The visual texture varies with the lighting angle, revealing different inclusion planes.
The lapidary decision was to maintain the elongated proportion —24 mm on the long axis, 11 mm wide— to expose the greatest length of the epidote needles' growth axis. A wider cabochon would have cut the formations transversely and lost the linear effect that defines this piece.
How epidote inclusions form in quartz
Epidote forms under low-to-medium grade metamorphic conditions, often in rocks altered by hydrothermal fluids rich in calcium and iron. When quartz is subsequently deposited —from hot fluids saturating rock fissures— it encapsulates pre-existing epidote crystals. The result is a mineral inclusion within a vitreous matrix: the epidote remains trapped in its original position. Each epidote cabochon is thus a record of two distinct geological events: the formation of the inclusion mineral and the subsequent deposition of the quartz that sealed it. The intense green color of epidote comes from its iron content in the ferric state, partially substituting aluminum in the crystal structure.
For what setting it works
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Bezel setting (925 silver or gold) — The elongated oval shape and thin 4 mm profile facilitate a low-walled bezel that leaves the entire inclusion area visible. Ideal for a central pendant or a statement ring in 925 silver.
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Long or medium-length pendants — The 24 × 11 mm proportion works particularly well when the piece hangs vertically; the long axis of the cabochon aligns with the natural direction of gaze.
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Wire wrap — An alternative for those who work with wire wrapping; the thin 4 mm profile allows for a clean wrap with 20-22 gauge copper or silver.
Epidote in lapidary tradition
Epidote has been known since antiquity under regional names such as "pistacite" (due to its pistachio-like color in some varieties). Its scientific name was coined in 1801 by mineralogist René Just Haüy, from the Greek ἐπίδοσις (increase or addition), in reference to the asymmetrical crystalline base that seems to "add" length to one of its sides. In 19th-century lapidary trade, it was common in European mineral collections before becoming popular as a jewelry material.
In crystal tradition, epidote quartz is associated with the artisan's patience and the beauty of slow growth. The green of its inclusions evokes presence and grounding. A stone especially appreciated in conceptual and collector's jewelry.
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 epidote quartz
Authentic epidote inclusions show prismatic crystals with well-defined terminations: they are not diffuse spots or homogeneous colorations. Under a jeweler's loupe: the crystals have flat faces and a recognizable profile. The color is intense green to yellowish-green with slight translucency in larger crystals. Imitations by dyeing or colored resin show coloration without internal crystal structure and often present microscopic bubbles visible under a lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the material?
This cabochon comes from deposits in Brazil, an area with notable production of inclusion quartz. The inclusions are epidote of metamorphic formation; no treatment or enrichment has been applied to the material.
What type of setting do you recommend?
We recommend a closed bezel setting in 925 silver. Quartz has a hardness of 7 Mohs, sufficient for daily wear, but the bezel protects the cut edges. With a 4 mm profile, it is compatible with standard wall bezels for artisan jewelry.
Has it undergone any treatment?
No detectable treatment. No staining, stabilization, or heating. The green color of the inclusions is natural mineral epidote. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
What makes the pattern of this piece unique?
The dendritic distribution of epidote crystals, their orientation within the quartz, and the transparency of the matrix are structural properties of the original fragment. No carving process can reproduce this pattern: it emerged from the geology of the deposit.
Are the dimensions exact?
The indicated dimensions (24 × 11 × 4 mm) have a tolerance of ±0.5 mm on any axis, as it is hand-cut. It is not an industrially calibrated piece.
How do I care for this cabochon?
Clean with warm water and a soft brush. Dry immediately. Store separately from abrasive materials. More details in our jewelry care guide.
More minerals with inclusions: lapidary collection. See also: all cabochons.
