Ten oval-shaped clear quartz cabochons with golden rutile needles and hematite inclusions, between 21×12 and 43×19 mm. Each piece is unique with its own individually described inclusion map.
Item details
| Mineral |
Quartz with rutile (TiO₂) and hematite (Fe₂O₃) inclusions |
| Dimensions per piece |
no.24: 23×19×7 mm · no.25: 30×20×7 mm · no.26: 22×19×6 mm · no.27: 26×18×7 mm · no.28: 43×19×7 mm · no.29: 25×21×7 mm · no.30: 27×18×9 mm · no.31: 30×14×8 mm · no.32: 21×12×7 mm · no.33: 21×15×6 mm |
| Shape and back |
Freeform oval, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
7 Mohs (quartz) — suitable for rings and pendants; we recommend a closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Brazil |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Item type |
Unique piece (each number is one-of-a-kind) |
This particular piece
The combination of golden rutile and hematite in the same crystal is unusual: most rutilated quartz has only one of the two types of inclusions.
Individual notes per piece: no.25 has a small dimple on the front face where the hematite inclusions are denser — a natural feature of the mineral. No.27 has reddish hematite inclusions in the tip area, which are particularly striking.
How rutile and hematite inclusions form in quartz
Rutile (TiO₂) crystallizes before quartz during the cooling of the rock. When quartz grows around already formed rutile crystals, it encloses them as oriented needles.
For which setting it works
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Pendant with bezel in 925 silver — white silver is the best complement to clear quartz because it does not interfere with the visibility of the golden inclusions; medium sizes (22-27 mm) are the most balanced for a pendant
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Statement ring in silver (medium pieces) — 7 Mohs pieces are suitable for rings; no.32 (21×12 mm) is the most compact and suitable for a regular wear ring
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Wire wrap — the flat back facilitates anchoring; the transparency of the quartz creates an interesting visual contrast when light passes through the piece and the inclusions cast shadows on the wire
Rutilated quartz in lapidary tradition
Rutilated quartz has been appreciated in Europe since the 18th century when it was called "Cheveux de Vénus" (Venus's hair) or "Cupid's Arrows" due to the golden needles trapped in the crystal.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine rutilated quartz
Genuine rutilated quartz has visible three-dimensional needles within the crystal — they are not scratches on the surface or drawings on a coating. The needles have a regular orientation (they follow the crystal structure) and look different from different angles.
Frequently asked questions
Do the notes on no.25 and no.33 (dimple, hole) affect the structural integrity of the piece?
The dimple on no.25 and the hole on no.33 are superficial and do not affect the integrity of the quartz. The bezel covers the perimeter of the piece, not the inclusions on the face. For no.33, the hole is on the back, which is hidden in the setting.
Are rutile and hematite natural or added inclusions?
Completely natural. Both have been part of the quartz since its crystallization millions of years ago. There is no subsequent treatment or addition.
Which is the largest piece in the lot?
No.28, at 43×19×7 mm, is the largest. It is an elongated oval (over 4 cm long) suitable for a large format pendant or a focal piece in artistic jewelry design.
Are the dimensions exact?
Tolerance ±0.5 mm on any axis due to them being freeform shapes.
Is each number a unique piece?
Yes. Once sold, each piece is not restocked.
How is rutilated quartz cared for?
Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid ultrasound (it can affect inclusions). Store separately from harder gems. Guide in care of your jewelry.
See also: all cabochons · handmade rings · handmade pendants.
