Round lodolite cabochon with chlorite, clay, and iron oxide inclusions that create miniature mineral landscapes. Diameter 13-14 mm, domed profile, flat back. Selected from a wholesale lapidary market.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Lodolite (hyaline quartz with chlorite, clay, and oxide inclusions) |
| Dimensions |
Diameter 13-14 mm x 6-9 mm height (depending on variation) |
| Shape and Back |
Round, polished flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6.5-7 Mohs - suitable for rings and pendants with moderate daily wear |
| Origin |
Brazil |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Unique piece per variation |
This Specific Piece
Lodolite – also called shamanic quartz or garden quartz – is hyaline quartz that trapped inclusions of green chlorite, white clay, and reddish iron oxides during its growth. The result is a window to a geological landscape in miniature: translucent veils, mineral moss patches, ocher areas. No two cabochons have the same pattern.
The domed profile (6-9 mm high) enhances the depth of the internal landscape when viewing the piece from different angles. The round shape is the most versatile for statement rings and simple silver pendants.
How Inclusions Are Formed
Chlorite inclusions precipitate during the growth of the quartz crystal when the hydrothermal fluid is rich in iron and magnesium. Depending on the temperature and crystallization rate, chlorite adopts acicular, laminar, or ethereal morphologies. Quartz definitively seals them as it solidifies, creating a permanent geological capsule that preserves the pattern for millions of years.
What Setting It Works For
-
Bezel setting (925 silver or gold) - the high profile is well enhanced; the circular base facilitates frame construction.
-
Statement rings - the 13-14 mm diameter is comfortable for a central ring without being excessive.
-
Wire wrap - the flat back offers a stable support point.
-
Minimalist pendants - mounted in a simple bail, it focuses attention on the internal landscape.
Lodolite in Lapidary Tradition
"Lodolite" derives from the Latin lotus (mud), referring to its inclusions. The reference deposits are in Minas Gerais (Brazil), where hydrothermal veins rich in chlorite produce the most valued specimens. In crystal tradition, it is associated with connection to nature and grounding. Symbolic properties shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to Recognize Genuine Lodolite
Authentic lodolite shows ethereal or acicular inclusions visible within translucent quartz; under magnification, the laminar structure of chlorite can be distinguished. A resin imitation lacks this three-dimensionality. Dyed quartz shows homogeneous coloring without the heterogeneous distribution of natural inclusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does this lodolite come from?
Material selected from a wholesale lapidary market, sourced from Brazil (Minas Gerais), where the most renowned deposits of quartz with chlorite inclusions are found.
What type of setting is it designed for?
The flat back facilitates bezel setting, closed or semi-open. Hardness 6.5-7 Mohs makes it suitable for rings with moderate daily wear. It also works in a prong setting if the diameter matches.
Has it received any treatment?
Untreated. The color and patterns are completely natural, originating from mineral inclusions trapped during crystal growth.
Why is no two pieces alike?
Each cabochon has a unique distribution of chlorite, clay, and oxide inclusions. The internal pattern is the unrepeatable geological fingerprint of that fragment of the deposit.
Are the dimensions exact?
Nominal diameter 13-14 mm depending on the variant. Tolerance 0.5 mm in any dimension.
How is lodolite cared for?
Warm water and neutral soap; rinse and dry. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and sudden temperature changes. More at jewelry care.
See also: all cabochons silversmithing wire wrap.
