What might be considered the "Holy Grail" for quartz inclusion collectors is the rutile/hematite starburst.
In these pieces a six sided, shiny black hematite crystal serves as an alignment point for the rutiles which, in the best examples, line up in parallel bundles along each face forming a six-rayed star with a hematite center.
Such pieces are sought after and highly valued even when the stars overlap or are incomplete.
This lovely semiprecious gemstone material is found in Novo Horizonte, Bahia in Northern Brazil.
This is one of the designer cabochon stones that is actually prized for its inclusions! Gold-colored, hairlike inclusions of rutile embedded in this semiprecious gemstone give it the appearance of a lightning show or meteor shower.
Metaphysical Properties: Rutilated Quartz is said to enhance physical and mental balance and stability, self-reliance and finding one's way. Many also attribute diminished fear and depression to the gemstone.
To see other Rutilated Quartz cabochons or Cat's Eye Rutilated Quartz cabochons click here.