Sagenitic Quartz
Quartz & Crystal Family
Sagenitic quartz is a descriptive inclusion material rather than a mineral species. It is quartz containing long needle-like crystals, commonly rutile but sometimes tourmaline or actinolite; crossed or twinned needles can form the net-like pattern shown here.
Identity
- Material or variety
- Quartz
- Scientific or material identity
- Quartz
- Classification
- Natural mineral or mineral variety
- Aliases or trade names
- Sagenite quartz
- Composition or formula
- SiO₂
- Crystal system or structure
- Trigonal
- Geological or manufacturing origin
- Can form in more than one geological environment, or combines several materials.
- Mohs hardness
- 7
- Specific gravity
- 2.65
Origins
Brazil · Madagascar
Appearance & optical properties
clear quartz filled with netlike reddish-gold fibers.
History & discovery
The word sagenite refers to a net and was applied to interlaced needle crystals. By the late nineteenth century it was also used for rutilated quartz; modern gemological usage can be broader and describes conspicuous acicular inclusions in quartz or other host gems.
Uses & care
- Common uses
- The patterned quartz is fashioned into cabochons, faceted display gems, beads, and collector specimens, with the cut chosen to show the internal mesh or sprays.
- Handling and cleaning
- Use warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush. Avoid sharp impacts and mechanical cleaning when the quartz is fractured or its needle inclusions reach the surface.
Jewellery
5 pieces of Sagenitic Quartz jewellery. Learners earn each one in DigMyGem by learning words; until then it shows as a silhouette.
Sagenite Lattice Ring
Ring
A fine net of mineral threads crosses the stone like a woven lattice.
Net of Threads Pendant
Pendant
A quartz drop where threads of sagenite weave a web of light.
Weaver's Brooch
Brooch
A brooch in the shape of a small loom, its quartz threaded with sagenite.
Spiderweb Ring
Ring
An imagined ring of sagenitic quartz, whose fine needles cross in a net pattern, set like a dewdrop caught in a web.
Spider Queen's Crown
Crown
An imagined silver crown set with sagenitic quartz, whose crossing needles look like a spider's web caught in crystal.