Large red quartz cluster
Large red quartz cluster
Locale: Morocco
Approx dimensions: 5.5 x 4 x 2.5", longest crystal 6 cm
Approx weight: 772g
Also known as hematite or ferruginous (iron-bearing) quartz, this unusual red quartz cluster gets its color from oxidized hematite. Hematite can manifest in multiple ways: as a color-causing agent in the quartz creating tones of red, orange, black, and brown; growing small red or black spots inside the quartz; or growing as a matte layer on the surface of the quartz.
The quartz in this specimen was initially colorless, but a change occurred during the growth process that introduced hematite inclusions, tinting the surface layer with red-brown hematite giving the specimen a matte appearance. Broken crystals along the edge reveal a colorless interior bordered by a layer of red-tinted quartz. A grainy overgrowth layer coats one side of the specimen, matte with a slightly glittery appearance like sand.
This large cluster sits well at an angle as a display piece with several large points splaying up and out of one end.
** Significant crack along the edge detailed in image 8; specimen would not lose any key features without it, but use caution placing pressure on that section as it is liable to pop off!