Oval cabochon of clear quartz with green chlorite inclusions forming an internal landscape — the effect known as "garden quartz". Three variants available. Flat, mirror-polished back.
Item Specifications
| Mineral |
Quartz (macrocrystalline SiO₂) with chlorite inclusions |
| Dimensions |
See selected variant; ±0.5 mm in any dimension |
| Shape and Back |
Oval, flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
7 Mohs (host quartz) — suitable for occasional wear in a ring; we recommend a closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item Type |
Available in 3 variants |
This Specific Piece
Chlorite is a green phyllosilicate that precipitates within the growth cavity of the quartz crystal.
All three variants in the lot feature medium-to-high density inclusions, with no areas completely devoid of chlorite. The quartz base is transparent to semi-transparent depending on the concentration of inclusions.
How Garden Quartz Forms
During the hydrothermal growth of quartz, solutions rich in iron, magnesium, and aluminum can precipitate chlorite onto the faces of the forming crystal. If growth continues over these particles, they become encapsulated within the SiO₂ mass.
Mounting Suitability
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Bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — a closed bezel protects the oval perimeter and allows light to enter through the top face, illuminating the internal garden.
-
Pendants with silver mountings — the transparency of the quartz means the pendant works in different lighting environments, showing the garden differently in natural or artificial light.
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Wire wrap — an alternative for those working with wire; the oval shape is receptive to a crisscross wrap that leaves the face exposed.
Chlorite Quartz in Lapidary Tradition
Quartz with chlorite inclusions has been used as an ornamental gemstone since at least classical Greece, where it was associated with Gaea, the goddess of the earth, due to its miniature landscape appearance.
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 Chlorite Quartz
Genuine chlorite quartz displays inclusions in planes or irregular distributions that respond to the crystalline structure of the host quartz. Imitations made of green tinted glass have a uniform color and no visible internal structure under magnification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the three variants?
Each variant is an individual piece with its own pattern of chlorite distribution. The hue and density of inclusions naturally vary between pieces from the same lot. Product photographs show the three available variants.
What mounting is most suitable?
For a closed bezel in 925 silver that allows light to enter from the front. The transparency of quartz (7 Mohs hardness) allows for use in a ring with moderate wear; we recommend a closed bezel setting to protect the edge from impacts.
Has it been treated?
Untreated. The green color is the result of natural chlorite inclusions within the quartz mass. This statement is based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Are the inclusions fragile within the piece?
The internal chlorite is encapsulated in solid quartz. The host mineral (quartz, 7 Mohs) protects the inclusions from surface wear. Areas with a high concentration of chlorite at the perimeter may be fragile if subjected to direct impacts on the edge.
What are the dimensions?
The dimensions of each variant are shown in the photographs. Variation of ±0.5 mm in any dimension.
How should it be cared for?
Clean with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, which can amplify microfractures in chlorite areas. Store separately from abrasive minerals. See complete jewelry care guide.
More about quartz with inclusions: properties and uses of quartz. See also: cabochon collection · handmade rings.
